Jay Johnson "at a loss for words" after LSU's win over Arkansas

LSU stole a win over Arkansas in the bottom of the ninth, advancing to the College World Series Finals against Coastal Carolina. Jared Jones hit a walk-off single to secure the win and now head coach Jay Johnson’s team is in the championship series for the second time in three years.

After the game, Johnson met with reporters and discussed his emotions after the thrilling victory.

Opening statement

“Wow. Um, first off, I want to congratulate Arkansas—Coach Van Horn, the staff. Coming here four years ago from the West, I just felt like that’s the program we always had to catch. The consistency of talent, fundamentals, competitiveness—they have it all. So I have so much respect for them. This actually means a little more, to be honest with you, because of that respect.

I said this probably two years ago to the day, when Tommy hit that walk-off homer against Wake Forest, I felt something in my body I’d never felt before. It was the greatest moment of my life. And now, it’s tied with that ninth inning tonight — Jared Jones’ line drive over the second baseman’s head, Luis Hernandez hustling around second… I didn’t know you could run like that, Luis.

I’d coach this team forever. I’ve been telling them that since probably March or April. It’s because of the character. Jared came back with the sole intent of doing what we’re doing now. He’s been a leader, not just driving in runs, but leading. We had zero innings returning behind the plate this year. Somehow, God blessed us with Luis Hernandez. We needed character at that position and he’s not just a great player, he’s a better human being.

Funny how things work out. We were supposed to play Wofford in the first game of the NCAA tournament, and I spent five days preparing for Zack Cowan. Thank God they didn’t throw him back then—he had thrown like 800 pitches in the conference tournament. But what a performance tonight. First-team All-SEC performer, and he delivered on the biggest stage in college baseball against one of the three best teams.

It’s pretty cool. While that game was going on tonight, the three best teams in college baseball were still alive. I’m just excited to prepare for a few more days, enjoy being together, and go compete for a championship, because I get to coach guys like this. They’re all across the team. But we’re not here without you three. Thank you for everything you’ve done. Let’s get after it.”

On what it means to get this team to this point…

“I’m literally at a loss for words. Yes, it’s about getting to the ultimate goal, but honestly, it’s about getting five more days with this team. This is a model team. There hasn’t been anything quite like it. It’s been consistent effort since our first team meeting on August 24, all the way through the ninth inning tonight.

Think about the walk-off wins we had at home against Arkansas, Tennessee. They just stay with it. Their mental toughness is like nothing I’ve ever seen. Their investment in the team—man, we’ve got guys who are going to play pro ball, but it’s not about that.

At LSU baseball, the expectation is: I will always place the needs of the team above my own. And these guys embody that every day. I’m just really thankful. If I had to sum it up in one word? Grateful.”

On the importance of not playing again Thursday…

“Once we took the lead, I started managing with the mindset of, “Let’s get this game done tonight and put ourselves in the best possible position for this weekend.” And what a week for Chase, he did what he needed to

It’s a huge deal not to have to play tomorrow night. There is nobody happier in the city of Omaha right now that there will not be a game tomorrow than Jay Johnson.”