LSU baseball head coach Jay Johnson gave an update on the health status of Omar Serna following Saturday’s loss to Florida, the final regular-season game of the year. Serna didn’t play against the Gators.
According to Johnson, the Tigers could rest Serna ahead of the SEC Tournament since they were not playing in a high-stakes game. Saturday’s outcome had no impact on where LSU stood in the conference standings.
“I hope today is the last day off he ever has at LSU,” Johnson said.
Serna dealt with different injuries throughout the season. He fought through bumps and bruises to play behind the plate and as the designated hitter. LSU hopes to make a run in the conference tournament to continue its season, and Johnson wants the freshman ready.
“It’s probably better to get him in a position to play on Tuesday and try to play as many games as we can there than use him today,” Johnson said.
LSU must win five games in the SEC Tournament to make the NCAA Tournament, including the championship game. Johnson prioritized giving players like Serna the rest they need to get healthy and come back refreshed on Tuesday.
“It’s our job to have enough depth to cover when things happen like that, but he should be fine for Tuesday,” Johnson said.
This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: Why LSU baseball rested Omar Serna in final game of Florida series