Jay Johnson had things rolling at Arizona but the opportunity to lead the LSU program was simply too much to pass on for the reigning Pac-12 Baseball Coach of the Year.

LSU officially announced Johnson’s hire on Friday.

“LSU Baseball is the premier program in the nation, and the interest we received from great coaches across the country was significant,” LSU AD Scott Woodward said. “Ultimately, Jay’s track record of postseason success, explosive lineups, and highly-ranked recruiting classes set him apart from the field. He’s made an immediate impact at every program he’s led, and he’s one of the most energetic, innovative, and focused coaches in America. I am confident he is ready to add to our extensive championship tradition at LSU, and we welcome Jay and Maureen to Baton Rouge.”

During his five seasons at Arizona, Johnson led Arizona to two College World Series appearances and a Championship Series berth back in 2016.

“I am humbled and honored to be the head baseball coach at LSU and serve as the steward of the next generation of national champions,” Johnson said. “LSU is a phenomenal University and athletics department, and I am very thankful to Scott Woodward and Stephanie Rempe for entrusting me to lead this storied program into its next winning chapter.

“I view this as the opportunity of my lifetime and will do everything in my power to have our team playing a brand of baseball that makes everyone at LSU, the Baton Rouge community, and the entire state of Louisiana incredibly proud. Geaux Tigers!”