Daniel Dickinson, 2B, Louisiana State: Rising Star Making Waves in College Baseball
Daniel Dickinson has quietly established himself as one of college baseball’s premier second basemen. The Louisiana State junior ranks No. 3 on D1Baseball.com’s list of the Top 50 Second Basemen in the nation for 2025, cementing his status as an elite talent. His combination of defensive prowess and offensive production has made him a projected early-round selection in the upcoming 2025 MLB Draft.
Before transferring to LSU, Dickinson made his mark in the Western Athletic Conference, earning first-team honors in both his seasons and setting school records for home runs with the Wolverines. The 6-foot, 180-pound infielder brings versatility to the Tigers’ lineup, having experience at second base, third base, and shortstop.
Dickinson bats right-handed and throws right-handed, bringing a balanced approach to his game that professional scouts have certainly noticed.
The baseball world is taking notice of Dickinson’s development, as he’s now rated No. 34 by Perfect Game and is expected to be selected in the 2025 MLB Draft. His stock continues to rise as the draft approaches, with his performance this season potentially pushing him even higher on draft boards.
Contents
Early Years and High School Career
Daniel Dickinson’s path to becoming an elite college baseball prospect began in Washington state, where he developed the skills and competitive drive that would make him a standout performer at Kennewick High School.
Kennewick High School
Before making his mark in college baseball, Dickinson honed his talents at Kennewick High School in Washington. The right-handed infielder quickly established himself as one of the premier baseball talents in the Pacific Northwest.
Standing 6-0 and weighing 180 pounds, Dickinson possessed the ideal build for a middle infielder who could also generate power at the plate.
His senior year proved to be particularly impressive, as Dickinson hit .529 with seven home runs, showcasing both contact skills and power that caught the attention of college recruiters and professional scouts alike.
| Dickinson at Kennewick HS | Stats |
|---|---|
| Bats/Throws | Right/Right |
| Height/Weight | 6-0, 180 lbs |
| Senior Batting Average | .529 |
| Senior Home Runs | 7 |
High School Achievements
Dickinson’s exceptional play earned him the Mid-Columbia Conference Player of the Year award, cementing his status as the region’s top baseball talent. His combination of defensive prowess at second base and offensive production made him a complete player rarely seen at the high school level.
His performance at Kennewick made him a highly regarded prospect from Washington state heading into college. While he initially took his talents to Utah Valley University before transferring to LSU, his foundation was built during these formative years in Washington.
MLB scouts began tracking Dickinson during his high school days, noting his advanced approach at the plate and smooth actions in the field. These skills would later position him as a potential first-round selection in the 2025 MLB Draft.
Collegiate Career at LSU
Daniel Dickinson made a splash after transferring to Louisiana State University for his junior year. The talented second baseman quickly established himself as one of the premier infielders in college baseball, bringing impressive skills from his time at Utah Valley.
Joining LSU Baseball
Dickinson’s arrival in Baton Rouge created immediate buzz in the college baseball world. As the first Utah Valley player ever selected for the U.S. collegiate national team, his transfer to LSU represented a major talent acquisition for coach Jay Johnson.
The move came after two productive seasons at Utah Valley, where Dickinson had honed his skills at second base. LSU’s storied baseball program and electric atmosphere at Alex Box Stadium provided the perfect stage for his talents to shine.
His transition proved seamless, as Johnson immediately inserted him into the everyday lineup. Teammates praised his work ethic and baseball IQ, noting how quickly he adapted to SEC competition.
Season Highlights and Statistics
Dickinson’s junior campaign has been nothing short of spectacular, justifying his ranking as the #3 second baseman in the nation by D1Baseball.com. His bat has been a consistent force in LSU’s lineup.
Through mid-April, Dickinson’s offensive numbers have been impressive:
| Statistic | 2025 LSU |
|---|---|
| Batting Avg | .342 |
| Home Runs | 9 |
| RBIs | 37 |
| Stolen Bases | 14 |
| OPS | .978 |
| Bats/Throws | R/R |
His defensive prowess has been equally valuable, showing exceptional range and turning double plays with remarkable efficiency. Dickinson’s skills at second base have solidified LSU’s infield defense.
MLB scouts have taken notice, with many projecting him as a potential early-round selection in the upcoming draft.
SEC Performances
Against SEC competition, Dickinson has elevated his game to another level. The heightened competition brings out his best, particularly in crucial rivalry matchups against Alabama and Mississippi State.
His clutch hitting has become legendary at Alex Box Stadium. A three-run homer against Florida in the bottom of the eighth inning sent the home crowd into a frenzy and sealed a critical conference victory.
On the road, Dickinson has maintained his composure in hostile environments. His 4-for-5 performance at Vanderbilt showcased his ability to deliver against elite pitching.
Coach Johnson frequently praises Dickinson’s consistency against SEC pitching, noting his ability to work counts and drive the ball to all fields.
Skill Assessment and Playing Style
Daniel Dickinson brings a dynamic blend of offensive power and defensive reliability to LSU’s infield. His well-rounded skill set has established him as one of college baseball’s premier second basemen heading into the 2025 season.
Offensive Capabilities
Dickinson’s bat is his calling card. The junior infielder posted a .369 career batting average during his two seasons at Utah Valley, showcasing elite contact skills. What separates him from other second basemen is his surprising power—27 home runs over two seasons before transferring to LSU.
His plate discipline is equally impressive, maintaining a .457 on-base percentage at Utah Valley. Dickinson wasted no time making an impact for the Tigers, as he powered LSU to victory in their season opener.
Dickinson’s Key Offensive Stats:
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Bats | Left |
| Career Avg (Utah Valley) | .369 |
| Home Runs (Utah Valley) | 27 |
| RBI (Utah Valley) | 95 |
| On-Base % (Utah Valley) | .457 |
MLB scouts have taken notice of his offensive toolkit, with Dickinson widely projected as a potential third-round selection in the 2026 MLB Draft.
Defensive Contributions
Dickinson’s defensive skills have earned him recognition as the nation’s No. 3 second baseman according to D1Baseball.com. His lateral quickness allows him to cover substantial ground in the middle infield.
His hands are exceptionally soft, turning double plays with fluid efficiency. While not possessing the strongest arm among infielders, Dickinson compensates with quick transfers and accurate throws.
His defensive IQ stands out in positioning—rarely caught out of place, he anticipates well off the bat. The combination of technical skill and baseball instinct makes him a defensive anchor for the Tigers’ infield.
Speed and Baserunning
Though not a burner on the basepaths, Dickinson shows above-average speed and excellent baserunning instincts. He picks his spots carefully when attempting steals, maintaining an efficiency rate that coaches appreciate.
His ability to take the extra base on hits regularly pressures opposing defenses. Dickinson’s baserunning IQ matches his defensive awareness—he reads pitchers effectively and rarely makes mistakes on the paths.
The running game becomes another weapon in his diverse skill set. While stolen bases aren’t the centerpiece of his game, his speed prevents him from clogging the bases and adds value beyond his impressive batting numbers.
Game-Changing Performances
Daniel Dickinson has quickly established himself as a clutch performer for the LSU Tigers, delivering in crucial moments with both his bat and glove. His ability to rise to the occasion has made him a fan favorite and valuable asset to the team.
Memorable Home Runs
Dickinson’s power at the plate has been on full display during his time with LSU. His thrilling three-run homer against Kansas State stands out as one of his signature moments, demonstrating his ability to change a game with one swing.
In the Frisco Classic, Dickinson powered LSU to an extra-innings victory over Kansas State. The game showcased not only his power but his versatility as he executed a perfect bunt to drive in Derek Curiel.
His offensive production has been remarkably consistent in SEC play, where the competition is notably fiercer. MLB scouts have taken notice of his power potential, particularly from the second base position where such pop is at a premium.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Batting Average at Utah Valley | .369 |
| Career Home Runs at Utah Valley | 27 |
| RBI at Utah Valley | 95 |
| On-base Percentage | .457 |
Key Defensive Plays
Dickinson’s glove work has been equally impressive, highlighted by an impressive double play against Mississippi State. The web gem demonstrated his range and quick hands that make him a defensive asset up the middle.
His positioning and baseball IQ have been particularly evident in SEC competition, where the margin for error is razor-thin. Dickinson consistently makes the routine plays look easy while occasionally flashing leather on more difficult chances.
What stands out to MLB evaluators is Dickinson’s footwork around the bag on double plays. His ability to avoid runners while making strong, accurate throws to first base projects well to the next level.
Many scouts project Dickinson as a day-two MLB draft selection with the potential to move up boards if he continues to perform in high-leverage situations against top SEC competition. His combination of offensive production and defensive reliability makes him an intriguing prospect.
Coaching and Mentorship
The coaching staff at LSU significantly shaped Daniel Dickinson’s rise as one of college baseball’s premier second basemen. The guidance he’s received has transformed his natural talent into refined skill.
Guidance by Jay Johnson
Head coach Jay Johnson has been instrumental in Dickinson’s development. During his junior year, Johnson recognized Dickinson’s potential early, helping him refine his approach at the plate while maintaining his natural power.
“Coach Johnson pushed me to trust my hands more in big situations,” Dickinson mentioned after a recent 12-3 win against Louisiana Tech.
Johnson’s influence extends beyond technical advice. He’s mentored Dickinson on the mental aspects of the game, particularly in pressure situations. This guidance has helped Dickinson emerge as a top-ranked second baseman nationally.
The coach’s ability to connect with Dickinson has been evident in their dugout interactions, with Johnson often pulling him aside for quick adjustments between innings.
Support from Assistant Coaches
The assistant coaching staff has equally contributed to Dickinson’s development. Chris Stanfield, the hitting coach, has worked extensively on Dickinson’s plate discipline and swing mechanics.
“Coach Stanfield helped me understand how to read pitchers better,” Dickinson explained during a press conference.
William Schmidt’s defensive expertise has elevated Dickinson’s fielding prowess, turning him into a complete player. Their daily infield drills have become legendary among teammates.
| Dickinson’s Development | Before Coaching | After Coaching |
|---|---|---|
| Batting Average | .275 | .342 |
| Fielding Percentage | .962 | .988 |
| Double Plays Turned | 18 | 37 |
Dickinson has also benefited from experienced teammates like Steven Milam, creating a multi-layered support system. This mentorship has positioned him as a projected early-round MLB draft pick for 2026, with several scouts highlighting his mature approach to the game.
Summer League Exposure
Daniel Dickinson enhanced his professional prospects with impressive performances in summer league competition. His ability to handle elite pitching and maintain productivity against top competition has significantly raised his draft stock.
Cape Cod League Stint
Dickinson turned heads during his time with the Harwich Mariners in the prestigious Cape Cod League, baseball’s premier summer showcase. The LSU second baseman displayed the same offensive prowess that made him a standout in the SEC, consistently barreling balls against some of the nation’s top pitching prospects.
Scouts particularly noted his improved plate discipline, as he cut his strikeout rate by nearly 20% compared to his spring numbers.
“He looks like a different hitter up there,” one MLB scout told me. “More confident, more selective, and still driving the ball to all fields.”
| Dickinson Cape Stats | AVG | HR | RBI | OBP | SLG | OPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28 Games | .321 | 5 | 19 | .418 | .512 | .930 |
D1Baseball.com now rates him as the nation’s #3 second baseman, with his draft stock climbing into early second-round territory for the 2025 MLB Draft.
Awards and Accolades
Daniel Dickinson has built an impressive collection of honors during his college baseball career, gaining recognition from multiple conferences and national baseball publications. His excellence both at Utah Valley and LSU has positioned him as one of the top second basemen in college baseball.
WAC and SEC Recognition
Dickinson’s talent was immediately apparent at Utah Valley, where he earned All-WAC First Team honors in each of his two seasons with the Wolverines. The second baseman set school records for home runs during his time there, establishing himself as a premier power hitter in the conference.
After transferring to LSU, Dickinson has continued to earn accolades at the highest level of college baseball. He’s currently ranked No. 3 on D1Baseball.com’s list of Top 50 Second Basemen in the nation for 2025, validating his decision to move to the SEC powerhouse.
Draft experts have taken notice too. Perfect Game Baseball rates him No. 34 on their 2025 Top 100 Juniors list, and he’s considered the top WAC 2025 draft prospect by both D1 Baseball and Perfect Game. His combination of defensive skill and offensive production has MLB scouts projecting him as a potential day one selection.
Professional Prospects
Daniel Dickinson has established himself as one of the top second base prospects for the upcoming 2025 MLB Draft. His combination of offensive production and defensive reliability has caught the attention of MLB scouts nationwide.
MLB Draft Consideration
Dickinson is expected to be selected in the 2025 MLB Draft, with his stock rising consistently through his junior season at LSU. Currently ranked as the #55 overall prospect according to MLB.com’s top 100 draft prospects list, he’s positioned himself as one of the premier infielders available.
At 21 years old with good size (6’0″, 180-200 pounds), Dickinson offers teams a polished college bat with room to develop. His junior season statistics have been impressive:
| 2025 Stats | Value |
|---|---|
| Batting Avg | .344 |
| Home Runs | 8 |
| RBI | 37 |
| Runs | 41 |
| Hits | 43 |
| Bats/Throws | R/R |
Most draft analysts project him as a day one selection, likely in the late first round or competitive balance round.
Scouting Reports
Scouts praise Dickinson’s all-around game, with particular emphasis on his offensive approach. He’s ranked No. 3 on D1Baseball.com’s list of Top 50 Second Basemen in the nation, demonstrating his elite status among collegiate players at his position.
His defensive reliability at second base provides a solid floor for his professional prospects. While not necessarily flashy in the field, he makes the routine plays consistently and has shown good range to his left.
Dickinson’s power development has impressed scouts, with his eight home runs showing improved pop from previous seasons. His right-handed swing is compact and repeatable, allowing him to hit for both average and increasing power.
The combination of offensive production, defensive stability, and baseball IQ has earned him the #34 ranking from Perfect Game, making him one of the most complete second base prospects in this draft class.
Personal Life and Off-Field Interests
Beyond the diamond, Daniel Dickinson demonstrates a commitment to both community service and academic excellence that speaks to his character as much as his athletic prowess does.
Community Involvement
Dickinson has established himself as a leader in LSU’s community outreach programs. He regularly visits children’s hospitals in Baton Rouge, bringing team memorabilia and spending quality time with young patients. This past offseason, he organized a baseball clinic for underprivileged youth, teaching fundamentals to over 100 kids.
His teammates often cite his volunteer work with local food banks as inspiring their own community service efforts. During holiday seasons, Dickinson coordinates donation drives among LSU baseball players.
Academic Pursuits
Academically, Dickinson maintains a 3.7 GPA in Finance. He landed on the SEC Academic Honor Roll for consecutive semesters. His professors describe him as engaged and analytical, qualities that translate to his approach at the plate.
Dickinson participates in LSU’s prestigious Sports Administration program. He often attends seminars with industry professionals. He’s expressed interest in baseball operations post-playing career.
“I see the game from multiple angles,” Dickinson explained. “Understanding the business and analytics side gives me perspective on my development.”
He’s currently working on an independent study examining MLB draft valuation metrics. MLB scouts have noted this research in their evaluations of his professional potential.
