Brayden Jobert says hard work in offseason was 'absolutely' worth it

If you ever wonder if hard work pays off, look at Brayden Jobert. The LSU redshirt junior is a walking example of work ethic.

Jobert was pivotal in LSU’s 6-3 win over Tennessee in the first round of the Men’s College World Series. The 6-foot-2 outfielder recorded three hits in four at-bats. However, the hits weren’t classic one-shot singles. Jobert cranked out a double, triple and a huge home run to right field in the eighth inning to give LSU a comfortable lead.

Jobert is simply proud to be a part of LSU’s postseason success.

“This is what you play for, to come and play on this stage. And I’m very proud of my team. Very proud of Paul [Skenes] and very proud of Gavin [Dugas]. We all worked really, really hard. And it’s for these moments. So I’m just happy to be a part of it,” Jobert said following the win.

An absolute MOONSHOT from Brayden Jobert! 🚀#CWS2023 | #CWSOmaha | @braydenjobert pic.twitter.com/L7xEVCQdYs

— Harrison Cordell Fant (@Fantavious9) June 18, 2023

Jobert is batting .313 this season, a significant improvement from his .246 batting average last season. While telling, those statistics only capture a fraction of Jobert’s journey.

The Louisiana native didn’t exit high school with MLB scouts knocking on his door. Jobert humbly began his collegiate career in 2020 at Nicholl State in Thibodaux, La. Jobert made the most of the opportunity.

In 18 games due to a shortened season, Jobert recorded a .365 batting average along with team-highs in hits (23), RBI (11) and runs scored (11), and he posted a 13-game hitting streak. Still not gaining the attention he deserved, Jobert transferred to Delgado Community College in New Orleans, La for his sophomore season.

Jobert dominated the JUCO scene, earning JUCO All-America honors and batting .386 with 15 doubles, 16 homers, 71 RBI, an .813 slugging percentage and a .469 on-base percentage. Shortly after, the star outfielder received an offer from LSU. He couldn’t have been happier to accept.

“Growing up in Louisiana, LSU has always been my dream school to play baseball. I want to win a National Championship in front of the best fans in college baseball,” Jobert said following his commitment.

Jobert’s dream just might come true. LSU is only a few wins away from winning the College World Series, something the program hasn’t achieved since 2009. The Tigers’ path won’t be easy. LSU will face off against No. 1 overall seed Wake Forest at 7 p.m. on Monday. The game will be broadcast on ESPN.