Zac Cowan’s season stats might not be turning heads, with a 6.23 ERA and 13 hits allowed over 8⅔ innings. But those numbers don’t tell the whole story. Lately, Cowan has shown glimpses of the pitcher who helped lead LSU to a national championship last year.
In his recent outings against Vanderbilt and Oklahoma, Cowan has been lights out, allowing just one hit and no runs over 4⅔ innings. He’s also struck out six batters and hasn’t issued a single walk. It’s clear that Cowan is finding his groove again, and that’s huge news for LSU.
LSU coach Jay Johnson had a feeling Cowan was turning a corner. “His last outing before Friday (at Vanderbilt) went great,” Johnson said.
“I had a conversation with him on Wednesday, and kind of saw what he'd been doing. I wasn't surprised at all that he pitched well (against Oklahoma).”
The secret to Cowan’s recent success? Landing his off-speed pitches for strikes.
His changeup, a signature weapon, has been crucial. By getting ahead in the count, Cowan opens up a world of possibilities during each at-bat.
Earlier in the season, Cowan struggled, giving up runs in three of his first four outings, including a rough appearance against Northeastern. But Cowan’s mindset remains positive.
“It's not always gonna be sunshine and rainbows,” he said. “But I like to look at it from a good perspective, stay ready, stay positive, and support the guys around me.”
Cowan’s resurgence couldn’t come at a better time for LSU. With junior right-hander Cooper Moore sidelined for three weeks due to triceps soreness, the Tigers need all the quality arms they can get.
Cowan’s experience makes him a strong candidate to fill Moore’s spot in the rotation. He has a history of stepping up, having started the game that propelled LSU to the College World Series final last summer.
While Coach Johnson hasn’t officially named Moore’s replacement, Cowan’s recent performances and the struggles of other potential starters like Cooper Williams and Jaden Noot give him a solid chance to step into the role.
Cowan appreciates the trust placed in him. “It's always a good feeling to have that trust from Coach Johnson and the people around me,” he shared.
“It's definitely a good feeling. And I just use that to kind of rub off on the people around me.”
Cowan’s return to form is a promising sign for LSU as they navigate the challenges of the season.