In a move that has stunned the LSU baseball community, freshman first baseman Ryan Costello has entered the NCAA Transfer Portal, as reported by On3’s Pete Nakos on June 2, 2025. The announcement, widely discussed across platforms like X, has sparked intense speculation about the motivations behind Costello’s decision to leave a program renowned for its competitive excellence. As Perfect Game’s No. 32-ranked player among the 2025 Top 75 College Freshmen and the No. 2 first baseman in the 2024 high school class, Costello was poised to be a cornerstone for the Tigers. His departure raises critical questions about roster dynamics, coaching decisions, and the pressures of SEC baseball.
Hailing from Ranney High School in New Jersey, Costello arrived at LSU with a stellar reputation. In his senior year of 2024, he posted a .562 batting average, smashed 14 home runs, and drove in 34 RBI, cementing his status as a power-hitting prodigy. His summer ball performance further underscored his potential, with reports noting an astonishing .800 batting average over his first three games. Projected as LSU’s starting first baseman for the 2025 season, Costello’s talent was undeniable, making his transfer decision all the more perplexing.
While Costello has not publicly elaborated on his reasons, fan discussions on platforms like TigerDroppings.com and X offer clues. A primary factor appears to be limited playing time within LSU’s highly competitive roster. Under head coach Jay Johnson, the Tigers prioritize established players, which can sideline even top recruits like Costello. One X user remarked, “Seems hard to break into lineup after Jay picks his dude, even when they suck most of the year,” reflecting frustration among fans that Costello’s opportunities were curtailed. Despite his elite ranking, breaking into the starting lineup as a freshman proved challenging, especially with veterans like Jared Jones (Bear) and Hayden Travinski (Frey) occupying key positions.
The SEC’s cutthroat environment further complicates matters. Freshmen are often expected to contribute immediately, or they risk being overshadowed by transfers and upperclassmen. LSU’s roster, constrained
