Now that LSU’s run in the College World Series is complete, former head coach Paul Mainieri has officially retired, and the program is still in search for his replacement.
One of the coaches in the running to take over is Ole Miss head coach Mike Bianco who served as an assistant for LSU in ’93 and ’94. Should Bianco join the Tigers, former LSU baseball legend Todd Walker would like to join the staff as well.
Walker was named the most outstanding player at the 1993 College World Series won by the Tigers, and he was coached by Bianco during his run as a Tiger.
“Baseball is what I know best and would love to coach at LSU,” Walker told the Advertiser on Tuesday. “I’d like to at least talk about it, but it depends on who the head guy is. I would love to coach under Mike. He was my coach at LSU, and I love the guy. I love college baseball.”
LSU athletic director Scott Woodward spoke with Bianco about the position on Monday, and after 21 seasons of coaching for the Rebels, Bianco could be a home run for the Tigers.
In his 21 seasons, Bianco saw much success as head coach tallying 16 postseason appearances, including six Super Regional berths and a trip to the College World Series in 2014. He also has 767 victories, holding a 767-440-1 (. 635) record.
Many believe he could achieve even more than that in Baton Rouge. He would benefit from better recruiting opportunities which can only help give him the winning edge as a head coach. Talent will be more accessible and there will be more scholarship money to build his program.
It’s still undecided who will takeover, but this move feels like a step in the right direction.