LSU baseball added one of the top transfer portal shortstops available on Friday as ex-Texas State infielder Dawson Park committed to LSU. Park marked LSU's second transfer addition of the cycle, joining Gonzaga's Landon Hood.

LSU is expected to be aggressive in the portal after missing the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2011. LSU has backed its word up so far.

Park fills a significant need for LSU. The Tigers figure shortstop Steven Milam will turn pro, leaving a big hole at the position. Milam has been a consistent presence at shortstop for two years and was a key player on LSU's 2025 national title run. In 2026, Milam became one of the best defenders in the SEC. It won't be easy to replace Milam's production, or what he meant to LSU in the locker room.

Park brings a high ceiling. He's talented, has power at the plate, and can flash the glove in the field. Here are three things to know about LSU's newest addition.

Park is a top-50-ranked transfer

Per 64Analytics, Park is the No. 49-ranked player in the transfer portal. He's a premium addition for this LSU baseball team. LSU didn't have the talent level it was accustomed to in 2026 -- Jay Johnson knows that. Park is a well-rounded player with All-SEC potential. The ceiling is high.

Park has power at the plate

Not all shortstops are home run threats, especially at the college level. Park is though. In 2026, Park hit 13 home runs in 48 games. Those aren't crazy numbers, but with another offseason, Park can be a 15-home run player. In 2026, LSU only had two players surpass 13 homers: Cade Arrambide and Jake Brown.

Park will make plays in the field

Take a look at the play above. Park shows off the range, fielding a ball in shallow left field and firing it across the diamond to get the out at first base. Park is an athlete, and that makes a difference at shortstop. Park still has room to grow as a fielder, and he's not Steven Milam, but with Park's skillset and LSU's coaching staff, LSU feels good about the level of defense it will get from its shortstop in 2027.

This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: Talented transfer Dawson Park brings high ceiling to LSU baseball