Bryce Jordan will forgo his final season of eligiblility

For the first time in four years, LSU won’t have a Jordan brother on the roster.

Fifth-year senior Bryce Jordan announced Wednesday that he’ll forgo his final season of collegiate eligibility and leave the baseball program. Jordan cited lingering issues from the serious knee injury that kept him out for all of the 2017 season in his decision to step away.

Bryce’s knee wasn’t progressing as well as he had hoped it would, and he was not able to play at the level to which he was accustomed,” said LSU coach Paul Mainieri through an official release. “He made a decision that was in best interests, and we fully support Bryce as he steps away from a game he loves very much.”

“LSU has provided the best years of my life,” Jordan said. “Having to walk away from something that I love and something that I’ve done my whole life is unspeakable. My family and I have thought strongly about my career and what is best for my future. I want to thank every coach on the staff and (LSU athletic trainer) Cory Couture, who has been with me through everything and has gone beyond the call of duty.

“As for my teammates, thank you for the memories and the brotherhood that LSU Baseball has molded through the years. And last but not least, the fans – you make LSU Baseball what it is, and you have helped make LSU the best university in the world.”

Bryce’s twin, Beau, graduated from LSU this past spring after a strong senior season. Bryce had a year of eligibility remaining due to the medical redshirt he received for the 2017 season. He returned to active duty last season and hit .256 in 37 games (27 starts) with five doubles, two home runs and 17 RBI.

The Lake Charles native had his best season in 2016, when he earned All-Southeastern Conference honors as a designated hitter. That season he hit .293 with seven doubles, five homers, 33 RBI and 40 runs scored. He also led the SEC with 23 hit-by pitches that season.

“It’s going to be very strange not having a Jordan on the LSU roster,” Mainieri said. “Bryce and Beau have epitomized the hard-nosed character of our program for the past four seasons, and we will certainly miss their presence.”

Bryce Jordan joins fellow veteran Chris Reid as offseason departures from last season’s team. LSU now sits comfortably at the roster maximum barring any additional departures or injuries.