As the countdown to the 2025 LSU baseball season hits 36 days, it’s the perfect time to dive into the significance of the number 36 in Tigers history. This isn’t just a number; it’s a symbol of excellence, grit, and a legacy left by one of LSU’s all-time greats: Eddy Furniss.

Eddy Furniss: The Man Behind the Number 36

Eddy Furniss wore the number 36 with pride during his LSU career from 1995 to 1998. A first baseman with a bat that could light up any ballpark, Furniss remains one of the most accomplished players to ever don the purple and gold. His career numbers? Absolutely legendary. Furniss smashed 80 home runs, drove in 308 RBIs, and carried a .371 batting average. Those stats? Pure video game numbers.

But what really sets Furniss apart is how he elevated LSU baseball. He was a key piece in the Tigers’ 1996 College World Series championship run. His consistency and clutch performances made him a nightmare for opposing pitchers and a cornerstone of Skip Bertman’s powerhouse teams.

The Honors Keep Coming

Furniss’s impact on the game didn’t go unnoticed. In 1998, he received the Dick Howser Trophy, awarded to the nation’s top college baseball player. Years later, LSU retired his iconic number 36 jersey on April 22, 2016, making him only the third player in program history to receive such an honor. If you’ve been to Alex Box Stadium, you’ve probably seen his name and number hanging as a constant reminder of his legacy.

A Legacy Beyond Baseball

Furniss didn’t stop impressing after his LSU days. While many of his teammates pursued long MLB careers, Furniss took a different route, pursuing a career in medicine. His journey from the diamond to the medical field shows the well-rounded individual he is—a true LSU legend on and off the field.

What It Means for Today’s Team

As we look forward to the 2025 season, the number 36 serves as a reminder of the high standard LSU baseball holds itself to. It’s not just about winning; it’s about leaving a legacy that inspires future generations. Whether it’s through power at the plate, leadership in the dugout, or integrity off the field, players like Furniss set the bar high.

Previewing the 2025 Tigers

The 2025 LSU Tigers are gearing up for another electrifying season, blending seasoned veterans with a dynamic group of newcomers. Head Coach Jay Johnson has expressed confidence in the team’s development, stating, “It was a really good fall for us with a lot of new players, completely new team… we feel like we’re in a really good spot as the season approaches.”

Pitching Staff

The Tigers’ pitching rotation is bolstered by several key players:

• Chase Shores: A sophomore right-handed pitcher, Shores has been recognized as one of the top prospects for the 2025 MLB Draft.
• Gavin Guidry: Entering his junior year, Guidry brings experience and skill to the mound, expected to play a pivotal role in the pitching lineup.
• Jaden Noot: A redshirt sophomore, Noot’s right-handed pitching adds depth and versatility to the Tigers’ bullpen.

Offensive Lineup

On the offensive side, the Tigers boast a lineup poised to make significant impacts:

• Jared Jones: A junior first baseman, Jones is anticipated to be a powerhouse in the batting order, bringing both strength and consistency.
• Josh Pearson: As a senior outfielder, Pearson’s experience and leadership are invaluable, contributing both offensively and defensively.
• Chris Stanfield: A junior outfielder, Stanfield’s athleticism and speed make him a key player to watch this season.

Newcomers to Watch

The Tigers’ roster is further enhanced by a top-rated newcomer class, which Baseball America ranked as the No. 1 class for the 2025 season.

• Daniel Dickinson: A junior infielder, Dickinson was ranked No. 2 among Baseball America’s Top 100 College Transfers, expected to make an immediate impact.
• Anthony Eyanson: A junior right-handed pitcher, Eyanson brings a strong arm to the mound, ranked No. 4 among top college transfers.
• Deven Sheerin: A sophomore right-handed pitcher, Sheerin’s talent has been recognized with a No. 8 ranking among college transfers, adding depth to the pitching staff.

Schedule Highlights

The 2025 season features a competitive schedule designed to test the Tigers and prepare them for postseason success:

• Season Opener: LSU kicks off the season at home against Purdue Fort Wayne on Friday, February 14, at Alex Box Stadium.
• Frisco College Baseball Classic: The Tigers will participate in this prestigious tournament from February 28 to March 2, facing teams like Nebraska, Kansas State, and Sam Houston at Riders Field in Frisco, Texas.
• SEC Matchups: The conference schedule includes crucial series against permanent opponents Mississippi State and Texas A&M, as well as other SEC powerhouses, providing rigorous competition throughout the season.

As the days tick down, the memories of Eddy Furniss and the number 36 remind us of LSU baseball’s rich history and the endless potential of the upcoming season. Whether it’s Furniss’s legendary bat or the roar of today’s fans, one thing’s for sure: LSU baseball is built on greatness, and the 2025 Tigers are ready to add to that legacy.

Geaux Tigers!