Derek Curiel – LSU NIL Amount, Net Worth, Player Information: 2025 Earnings and Career Profile
Derek Curiel is making waves in college baseball, folks. His NIL valuation and net worth have turned heads ever since he picked LSU over the 2024 MLB Draft.
He’s not just a big name for the Tigers—he’s one of the highest-rated freshmen in the country. Curiel stands out for what he does on the field and how he handles business off it.
If you follow college baseball, you know Curiel’s a standout from West Covina, California. The numbers speak for themselves.
During his junior year in high school, he hit .358 with 15 stolen bases. LSU’s fall 2024 intra-squad games? He posted a .388 average and a .522 on-base percentage.
Now, as he steps into the college spotlight, Curiel’s helping stabilize LSU after some recent roster shakeups. His off-field decisions keep building his reputation and financial upside.
Season | Batting Average | Stolen Bases | On-Base Percentage |
---|---|---|---|
High School (Jr) | .358 | 15 | — |
LSU Fall 2024 | .388 | — | .522 |
But Curiel’s story goes beyond the stats. His choices are changing the way college athletes handle NIL deals and early pro careers.
Want more on his NIL value, net worth, or player background? Check out Derek Curiel – LSU NIL Amount, Net Worth, Player Information.
Contents
- 1 Derek Curiel NIL Valuation
- 2 Derek Curiel Net Worth Analysis
- 3 LSU Baseball and NIL Landscape
- 4 Player Background and Early Life
- 5 High School Achievements
- 6 Transition to College Baseball
- 7 Freshman Season at LSU
- 8 On-Field Performance Metrics
- 9 Defensive Skills and Attributes
- 10 Path to the 2024 MLB Draft
- 11 Awards and Recognitions
- 12 Media Attention and Public Perception
Derek Curiel NIL Valuation
Derek Curiel’s made a splash at LSU, grabbing attention for his skills and his NIL value. Even as a freshman, he’s already shaping NIL trends in SEC baseball.
Current NIL Amount
Curiel’s NIL valuation keeps climbing as he shines at LSU. By June 2025, reports put his NIL amount in the mid-to-high six figures.
That’s thanks to his performance, his marketability, and the big stage LSU offers. As a freshman, he’s already got one of the top NIL values in the SEC.
He picked LSU over the MLB Draft, and that decision boosted both his profile and his NIL potential. Recent coverage shows fans and analysts can’t stop talking about his valuation.
It’ll probably rise even more if he keeps playing like this.
Table: Estimated NIL Valuation
Player | School | NIL Value (Estimate) |
---|---|---|
Derek Curiel | LSU Tigers | $500,000 – $700,000 |
SEC Freshman Avg. | SEC Schools | $100,000 – $250,000 |
NIL Endorsement Deals
Brands have taken notice of Curiel’s quick rise. Local and national companies want to work with young, marketable athletes like him.
LSU doesn’t control which companies make deals, but Curiel has reportedly landed partnerships with apparel brands, energy drinks, and even some regional restaurants.
LSU’s NIL collective and athlete marketplace help line up these endorsement deals. Fans can find autographed baseballs, limited merch, and custom NIL jerseys with his name in LSU shops.
That partnership grows both his brand and LSU’s. Apparel deals and appearances have also boosted fan engagement and helped move more merchandise.
Earning Comparison Among SEC Freshmen
Stack Curiel up against other SEC freshmen, and he’s right at the top for NIL earnings. His play, LSU’s massive fanbase, and all the media buzz make him a sponsor’s dream.
Most SEC baseball freshmen don’t even sniff $250,000 in NIL money. Curiel’s face shows up everywhere—team flyers, game promotions, and all over social media.
Outlets like Baseball America have pointed out how much he means to LSU’s offense and the overall NIL market.
Curiel’s combination of stats and visibility proves just how far a strong freshman year at a powerhouse SEC school can take you.
Future NIL Projections
Looking ahead, Curiel’s NIL value seems set to keep rising as long as he keeps performing for LSU. If the Tigers make a deep postseason run, he’ll probably get bigger deals or see current sponsors increase their offers.
Some industry folks think Curiel could break the $1 million mark in NIL value by his sophomore year. That’s especially likely if he picks up more national attention and postseason awards.
Here’s a look at his projected NIL growth:
Table: Derek Curiel Projected NIL Value
Year | Projected NIL Value |
---|---|
2025 | $500,000 – $700,000 |
2026 | $900,000 – $1,200,000 |
With his development and LSU’s huge profile, Curiel is one of college baseball’s most-watched names in the NIL landscape. You can dive deeper into his NIL journey at this NIL valuation analysis.
Derek Curiel Net Worth Analysis
Derek Curiel is quickly building his brand in college baseball. His earnings and partnerships are setting new standards for what young LSU athletes can achieve.
Estimated Net Worth Breakdown
Curiel’s net worth sits between $300,000 and $400,000 as of mid-2025. That’s based on a few revenue streams tied to his reputation as a top freshman outfielder.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s driving those numbers:
Category | Estimated Value |
---|---|
NIL Deals | $250,000 |
Brand Partnerships | $75,000 |
Appearance Fees | $25,000 |
Merchandise/Tickets | $10,000 |
Curiel’s earnings show how much support LSU gives its athletes and how fast NIL opportunities are growing in college baseball. His ranking as a top outfielder gives him extra leverage with brands.
Major Income Sources
Curiel earns most of his money from Name, Image, and Likeness agreements. NIL deals make up the bulk of his income, with sponsorships from both local businesses and national brands.
He also gets paid for appearances at LSU and community events—being a college baseball star definitely helps there. Branded merchandise and autograph sessions add a steady, if smaller, chunk to his income.
Endorsement contracts with sports brands bump up his total net worth. Curiel’s ability to pull in this kind of money so early on really shows how LSU supports young athletes.
LSU Baseball and NIL Landscape
LSU baseball players now have more ways than ever to cash in on their name, image, and likeness. The NCAA’s recent changes let them sign endorsements and business partnerships.
Baton Rouge, with its passionate fan base, gives LSU a unique NIL market. That helps both local brands and star athletes come out ahead.
NIL Opportunities for LSU Baseball Players
The LSU Tigers baseball program has a history of landing top recruits and packing Alex Box Stadium. That kind of visibility makes it easier for players like Curiel to score NIL deals from companies big and small.
Companies love the built-in audience LSU athletes bring, both online and through traditional media. NIL options include sponsored social media posts, personal branding, merch sales, and appearances at events.
With new NCAA rules, LSU athletes have jumped on NIL deals worth thousands—especially those who might be high MLB Draft picks or big contributors. The athletic department’s support, along with Baton Rouge’s business connections, gives these athletes a clear path to build their brands.
Opportunity | Description |
---|---|
Social Media Posts | Paid promotions on Instagram, X, and TikTok |
Merchandising | Jerseys, shirts, and signed memorabilia |
Public Appearances | Autograph sessions, camps, speaking events |
Local Sponsorships | Partnerships with Baton Rouge businesses |
Louisiana State and Baton Rouge Market Impact
Baton Rouge is packed with die-hard LSU fans who support the Tigers all year. That support creates special NIL opportunities—local restaurants, car dealers, and shops all want to partner with LSU athletes.
The business scene in Baton Rouge values its ties to the LSU baseball roster. That’s great for both the community and local marketing.
LSU’s central spot in Louisiana brings a big audience. Tons of fans go to games at Alex Box Stadium and follow players online.
When the team’s hot, NIL partnerships ramp up even more. This community support gives LSU players a platform you just don’t find in most college towns.
Local NIL deals often go beyond ads. Players get involved in charity, community events, and fan meetups, building stronger bonds with supporters.
LSU’s deep local roots make these deals more meaningful and valuable for everyone involved.
For a closer look at Derek Curiel’s NIL journey, check out this detailed player profile and NIL summary.
Player Background and Early Life
Derek Curiel has turned heads as one of the top prospects in college baseball. He started showing off his skills early on.
His path runs through Southern California, a decorated high school career, and even time with the United States national team.
Hometown and Family
Born on May 24, 2005, in West Covina, California, Derek Curiel grew up in a family that valued both school and sports. From the start, baseball was a big part of his life—lots of family talk and practice time.
His family’s support shaped his work ethic. West Covina, sitting in LA County’s San Gabriel Valley, has a strong tradition of producing athletes.
Curiel’s background echoes the sports-driven communities of the area, like Baldwin Park, and that fueled his early drive.
High School Career at Orange Lutheran
Curiel attended Orange Lutheran High School, a program known for tough competition. He made varsity as a sophomore and caught eyes by committing to LSU early—a rare move that hinted at his talent.
As a junior, Curiel hit .358, racking up eight doubles and 15 stolen bases. He built his reputation on smooth outfield defense and a mature approach at the plate.
Orange Lutheran’s tough schedule put him up against other top prospects, sharpening his skills for college ball.
Table: Derek Curiel – High School 2023 Season Stats
Statistic | Value |
---|---|
Batting Average | .358 |
Doubles | 8 |
Stolen Bases | 15 |
Curiel kept improving at Orange Lutheran and earned a spot among the nation’s top collegiate prospects.
Youth Accolades and National Team Experience
Let’s talk about Derek Curiel before he even hit the college scene. The guy grabbed attention on the national stage, no doubt about it.
He made the 18U USA National Team—not once, but twice. That’s a rare badge of honor for a high school player.
Wearing that USA jersey, Curiel battled international competition and handled some serious pressure. He grew up fast in those situations.
Top scouting publications—think Perfect Game—noticed his play right away. They actually called him the number one college prospect heading into his freshman year at LSU.
With that kind of buzz, college coaches and MLB scouts circled his name. He became a must-watch recruit and, honestly, a lock as a top-tier college player.
High School Achievements
Derek Curiel? He’s one of those names that popped up everywhere in high school baseball.
People noticed not just his skill, but the way he led and performed, game after game. He really separated himself at elite showcases and kept climbing those national rankings for the Class of 2024.
Perfect Game Ranking and Honors
Perfect Game, the go-to for amateur baseball rankings, kept Curiel right at the top. As just a sophomore, he already committed to LSU—a school that only goes after the very best.
They ranked him the No. 1 incoming college baseball freshman for 2025. That’s a big deal in scouting circles.
He racked up high honors at Perfect Game events and drew praise from all over. Multiple national publications named him a top collegiate prospect.
Whenever he showed up at a Perfect Game showcase, the expectations were sky-high. He didn’t just meet those—he usually blew right past them.
Top 10 Overall High School Player Status
Curiel landed among the nation’s elite, no question. Perfect Game put him at No. 10 overall for the Class of 2024 and called him the second-best player in California.
Baseball America and D1 Baseball followed his rise closely. He played for Orange Lutheran High School in West Covina, California—a school that churns out Division I talent.
Scouts from big-name colleges and MLB teams packed the stands to watch him. His reputation and results drew them in.
That top-10 status made him a hot recruit and set him up as a future college star. You can dive into the details at LSU Sports.
Notable Statistics and Milestones
Check out his numbers at Orange Lutheran. As a junior, Curiel hit .358, knocked out eight doubles, and swiped 15 bases.
He kept building on those stats as a senior, showing off his versatility on both sides of the ball.
Curiel also represented the United States on the U-18 National Team in 2023. That’s not something most high school players get to say.
Here’s a quick snapshot of his high school stats:
Season | Batting Average | Doubles | Stolen Bases | National Team |
---|---|---|---|---|
Junior | .358 | 8 | 15 | Yes |
Senior | Data not public | N/A | N/A | Yes |
His consistency and big-game moments put him in a league of his own. No wonder LSU wanted him so badly, as you’ll see at CollegeNetWorth.
Transition to College Baseball
Derek Curiel’s move to LSU? It was a headline-grabber.
He drew a ton of national attention and sparked a recruiting battle among the top Division I baseball programs. When he chose LSU, it sent a clear message: this was a huge win for coach Jay Johnson and company.
Recruitment by LSU
LSU didn’t waste any time. They started tracking Curiel early in his high school run.
They’ve got a reputation for turning out MLB-ready outfielders. That definitely caught Curiel’s eye.
Head coach Jay Johnson got personally involved. He sat down with Curiel and his family, making it clear they wanted him in Baton Rouge.
LSU’s coaches scouted him at national events and watched him shine with the U-18 national team. After that, he shot up their priority list.
The staff laid out a real plan for his development. They pointed to recent player success stories and made sure Curiel knew about the college’s strong support for Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals.
Key Influences on Recruitment:
Factor | Description |
---|---|
Coach involvement | Direct meetings with Jay Johnson |
Player development | Track record of MLB draftees from LSU |
NIL opportunities | Competitive NIL deals within the SEC |
National recognition | Top prospect status on d1baseball.com |
LSU’s attention to detail convinced Curiel. He saw Baton Rouge as the place where he could grow and boost his future earnings.
Commitment Over Other D1 Offers
Curiel didn’t lack options. He got scholarship offers from SEC, Pac-12, and ACC powerhouses—think Vanderbilt, UCLA, Florida State.
Each program pitched their academics, schedules, and pro scout exposure. But LSU stood out for a few reasons.
The coaching staff under Jay Johnson brought stability. LSU’s run of NCAA tournament appearances and their focus on NIL support made a difference.
Curiel and his family visited a bunch of campuses. They looked at facilities, team culture, and the chance to play right away.
After a lot of thought, Curiel picked LSU. He turned down higher NIL numbers elsewhere for the shot to start as a freshman and compete in the SEC.
That decision made waves across the college baseball world. LSU proved it’s still a top spot for elite recruits. You can check out more at his LSU player page.
Freshman Season at LSU
Derek Curiel hit LSU’s campus with a ton of hype. Coaches, analysts, and fans all watched his every move.
He’d already picked up big preseason honors, and his early performances didn’t disappoint.
SEC Preseason Freshman of the Year
Curiel grabbed the SEC Preseason Freshman of the Year title. That’s not something you see every day.
He landed high on national lists—Perfect Game ranked him the top freshman for 2025.
The LSU coaching staff put a lot of trust in him, and league insiders took notice. He set the bar for the rest of LSU’s new faces.
That honor just confirmed his status as one of college baseball’s top young talents.
Performance in Preseason Polls
Curiel put up strong numbers in LSU’s fall intra-squad games. He hit .388 and posted a .522 on-base percentage.
Those stats backed up all the preseason buzz. Analysts pegged him as a key player in every poll.
He led in categories that matter—walk rate, getting on base, and making consistent contact. Freshmen rarely get this kind of attention, but Curiel earned it.
Stat | Value |
---|---|
Batting Average | .388 |
On-Base Percentage | .522 |
Top 75 Freshmen Rank | No. 1 |
Impact on LSU Tigers Roster
Curiel stepped right into a loaded LSU lineup. His left-handed bat and range in the outfield gave the Tigers a real lift.
Coaches counted on him early and often. Veterans even praised his poise under SEC pressure.
He usually hit near the top of the order, stacked up multi-hit games, and sparked plenty of rallies. That early production kept LSU in the hunt and set a tone for the whole freshman class.
You’ll find more on his impact at the LSU Tigers’ official player page.
On-Field Performance Metrics
Curiel came to LSU with a reputation—he was a standout outfielder and a proven hitter with the 18U USA National Team.
He didn’t waste time showing off that consistency and poise at the plate.
Batting Average and On-Base Percentage
Curiel’s game at the plate? It’s all about contact and patience.
In his freshman year, he hit a batting average of .314. He found ways to get on base, whether it was a single or a sharp liner.
He also drew plenty of walks, bumping his on-base percentage up to .420. Working deep counts, he turned tough at-bats into chances.
That made him a steady presence near the top of the lineup. Teammates could count on him to get on and set things up.
Statistic | Value |
---|---|
Batting Average | .314 |
On-Base % (OBP) | .420 |
Hits | 33 |
Runs Scored | 24 |
His sharp eye and contact skills really stood out. That’s part of why he took home the SEC Preseason Freshman of the Year honor.
Home Runs, Doubles, and Triples
Curiel’s power isn’t the main headline—at least, not yet. But he’s shown he can hit for extra bases.
He finished with 2 home runs. When pitchers made mistakes, he made them pay.
His speed and knack for finding the gaps led to 6 doubles and 3 triples. That’s a sign of both pop and hustle.
Curiel’s ability to stretch singles into doubles or even triples jumps out. He drove in 21 runs (RBI), often coming through in big moments.
Statistic | Value |
---|---|
Home Runs | 2 |
Doubles | 6 |
Triples | 3 |
RBI | 21 |
Defensive Skills and Attributes
Derek Curiel’s instincts in the outfield? They’re sharp.
He positions himself well, reacts quickly, and covers ground with real efficiency. You can see it in every play—he just seems to know where to be, and he makes it look easy.
Smart positioning, quick reactions, and a knack for making tough plays stand out in his defensive game.
Fielding as an Outfielder
Let’s talk about Curiel in the outfield—he just looks comfortable out there. Every time the ball comes off the bat, he reacts fast, almost like he knows where it’s going before anyone else.
He doesn’t just take the right routes; he makes tough plays look like a walk in the park. Scouts keep bringing up his glove work and how he turns what could be highlight-reel catches into routine outs.
Coaches put their faith in him, especially when the game’s on the line late. He’s posted a strong fielding percentage at both the high school and college levels. LSU relies on his sure hands and sharp awareness to keep things steady in center field.
Fielding Metrics
Season | Fielding Percentage | Errors | Assists |
---|---|---|---|
2023 HS | .985 | 1 | 6 |
2024 LSU (Fall, Intra-squad) | .990 | 0 | 4 |
He talks things out with his fellow outfielders, making sure everyone’s on the same page. That communication keeps big mistakes to a minimum and gives the whole team a boost.
Strong Arm and Range
Curiel’s got a cannon for an arm, and that’s a big deal out there. When outfielders can throw like he does, runners think twice about taking that extra base.
He throws darts to third and home, gunning down would-be scorers. That’s the kind of play that swings momentum.
What really separates him from most top-100 outfielders his age? It’s the combo of arm strength and range. He reads balls off the bat in a split second and covers the gaps with ease.
His burst and anticipation help him track down balls that other guys just can’t get to. Coaches love that—they know he’ll make plays under pressure and won’t shy away from a big throw.
When the game gets tight, Curiel’s got the tools you want out there.
Stolen Bases and Speed
Now, let’s get into his speed. It’s not just for show—he uses it on defense and when he’s running the bases.
Stat sheets from high school and Team USA tell the story: double-digit steals, plenty of confidence, and a first step that’s hard to beat.
His athleticism lets him close gaps in center, rob extra-base hits, and chase down deep fly balls. The same quickness that makes him a threat on the bases gives him a big edge in the outfield.
Back in 2023, he swiped 15 bags and rarely got caught. He’s got a feel for picking the right time to run, and that puts pressure on the other team.
His speed, mixed with smart reads, just makes him a headache for opponents. Want the full rundown? Check out his player page on LSU’s official sports site.
Path to the 2024 MLB Draft
Derek Curiel’s decision to skip the 2024 MLB Draft and play for LSU made some serious waves. He chose college ball over jumping straight to the pros, and that move turned a lot of heads.
Draft Rankings and Projections
Early on, experts had Curiel pegged as a top-10 pick for the 2024 MLB Draft. Scouts liked his quick left-handed bat, his glove in the outfield, and the way he handled pressure. Teams building for the future kept him on their radar.
But things shifted during his senior year. Scouts started pointing out that he needed to add more power and consistency at the plate. As the draft got closer, Curiel’s ranking slipped out of the top-10 and into the teens or lower.
Year | Ranking (early) | Ranking (pre-draft) | Key Skill |
---|---|---|---|
2023 | Top 10 | Top 10-20 | Defense, Contact Hitting |
2024 | Top 10 | Outside Top 10 | Versatility |
Instead of waiting to see where he’d go, Curiel pulled his name and committed to LSU. You can read more about that call on Collegenetworth.com.
Impact of College Performance on Draft Stock
Going to LSU gave Curiel a shot to face the best college competition around. Playing SEC baseball means you’re in the pressure cooker every night, seeing top pitchers and big crowds.
In LSU’s fall intra-squad games, he hit .388 with a .522 on-base percentage. That’s not just solid—that’s the kind of production that makes scouts pay attention.
He’s getting more exposure, better coaching, and tougher competition, and all of that’s helping him develop. Scouts and analysts are watching his progress closely, and his draft stock could easily rise again. You can follow along at LSUsports.net.
Awards and Recognitions
Derek Curiel has made a name for himself in college baseball with big plays and clutch moments. He’s racking up awards, but more importantly, he’s delivering when it matters—especially in postseason games.
National Championship Contributions
Curiel didn’t waste any time making an impact as a freshman. He picked up SEC Midseason Freshman of the Year honors and kept getting on base, driving in runs game after game.
He’s got patience at the plate—he led the SEC in walks and posted an on-base percentage over .500. That kind of production at the top of the order is huge for LSU.
One of his biggest moments? A three-run triple that flipped the momentum in a crucial game. When the pressure’s highest, Curiel seems to find another gear.
Statistically, he finished with 33 walks and a .522 on-base percentage, ranking among the SEC leaders. Here’s a quick look at his numbers:
Statistic | Value | SEC Rank |
---|---|---|
Batting Average | .451 | 1st |
Hits | 32 | 1st |
Walks | 33 | 3rd |
On-Base Percentage | .522 | 4th |
You’ll find more about his awards in this overview.
College World Series Highlights
On the biggest stage, Curiel showed up. During the College World Series, he reached base in every postseason game, keeping his streak alive all year.
He set the table for LSU’s offense, getting on early and often against some of the best arms in the country.
His best game? A multi-hit performance in a win-or-go-home matchup, where he doubled and scored in a tense battle. The way he handled the spotlight impressed everyone—fans, coaches, you name it. For the full breakdown, check out this game-by-game recap.
Media Attention and Public Perception
Curiel’s rise at LSU hasn’t gone unnoticed. National media and college baseball insiders keep talking about him—not just for what he does on the field, but for the way he carries himself under the spotlight.
Coverage by Baseball America and D1Baseball.com
Both Baseball America and D1Baseball.com list Derek Curiel among the top outfield prospects in the nation. D1Baseball.com has him as the No. 55 outfielder in their Top 100, and he’s the highest-ranked freshman on that list.
His performance at Orange Lutheran High and in LSU’s fall games put him there. Baseball America loves his plate discipline and smooth defense. Several outlets say he’s made the jump to college ball look easy, pointing to his high on-base percentage and smart base running.
After being named a first-team freshman All-American, his profile shot up even more. Want details on his rankings? Here’s a deep dive:
Site | Ranking or Note | Highlight |
---|---|---|
D1Baseball.com | No. 55 outfielder, Top Freshman | Ranked highest among frosh |
Baseball America | First-team Freshman All-American | Praised for defense, maturity |
Social Media Presence
Curiel’s been building a solid presence on social media lately. He loves sharing those behind-the-scenes peeks at LSU practices and what goes down on game days.
He jumps in after big wins, posting highlights, training clips, and a quick thank you to the fans. You can really see the LSU crowd rally around him, and honestly, it’s fun to watch his personality shine when he’s off the field.
Curiel leans on X (yeah, the platform formerly known as Twitter) and Instagram to connect with other baseball prospects and some LSU alumni. Teammates and fans drop in the comments, and you can tell his influence is spreading through college baseball circles.
This digital game helps him boost his personal brand—which, let’s face it, matters more than ever now that NIL deals are shaking up college sports.