Marty Lanoux’s legacy paved the way for LSU’s first College World Series trip the following year. His impact on the program was more than just numbers on a stat sheet—it was grit, heart, and a love for the game that set the stage for LSU’s rise. Before wearing the purple and gold, he sharpened his skills at Santa Fe Community College, and before that, his baseball dreams took root at Orange Park High in Florida. Now, that dream has reached its final chapter, far too soon.
A fierce competitor at third base, Lanoux was the backbone of the 1985 LSU team that captured the SEC Western Division title. He batted .352, leading the team with 76 hits, launching eight home runs, and driving in 42 runs. He was more than a hitter—he was patient, disciplined, walking 31 times while striking out only 26. But for all his efforts, LSU’s first NCAA Regional under Skip Bertman ended in heartbreak, with losses to Lamar and Houston. He had given everything to the game, but the game, as it so often does, had no promises to give back.
That 1985 season was a turning point, the first sign of something bigger to come. LSU wouldn’t have to wait long—just a year later, the Tigers finally reached the College World Series. Lanoux never got that moment himself, but he was part of the foundation. His sacrifice, his sweat, his belief—all of it helped pave the way for the greatness that followed. And now, he is gone, his story suddenly cut short, leaving behind only memories and the echoes of a bat meeting ball under stadium lights.
Marty Lanoux, the heart and soul of that team, has died at the age of 60, LSU announced Tuesday. The game has lost one of its own. His loved ones have lost a father, a son, a brother. And LSU has lost a Tiger who gave everything he had to the field.
He leaves behind his children, Mady, Caleb, and Jake, who must now carry his spirit forward without him. His parents, Carol and Brenda, who should never have had to say goodbye to their son. His siblings, Susan and Brian, now missing a piece of their family. The diamond will shine a little dimmer witho
ut him.
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