LSU Pitcher Mavrick Rizy Enters Transfer Portal

Sophomore pitcher Mavrick Rizy is leaving LSU and entering the transfer portal following his second season with the team. Rizy announced his departure via Instagram on Tuesday, signaling the end of his time with the Tigers. The 6'9" pitcher was a notable presence on the mound, contributing to LSU's eighth national championship in 2025, though he did not pitch in the College World Series that year.

During his freshman season in 2025, Rizy pitched 24.2 innings with a 4.74 ERA, striking out 29 batters while walking 19. He threw 58.5% of his pitches for strikes. In 2026, his control became a significant issue, with eight wild pitches and seven hit batters, compared to two wild pitches and four hit batters the previous year. Despite these control problems, his ERA slightly improved to 4.22 in 2026 over 3.1 fewer innings pitched, with 55% of his pitches for strikes.

Rizy's struggles mirrored broader issues within the LSU pitching staff during a historically poor 2026 season. His departure, coupled with the likely exit of other pitchers to the draft, necessitates significant additions to the team's pitching depth. Head coach Jay Johnson and his staff will focus on recruiting from the transfer portal and developing returning underclassmen to strengthen the team for the next season, with an increased emphasis on improving control.