Baton Rouge – The Baton Rouge Rougarou is going back to its past as it heads into the future.

Jeff “Rooster” Southall will return as manager of the BR Rougarou for the 2023 season, which begins on May 30 at Pete Goldsby Field. Southall managed the team in its inaugural season in the Texas Collegiate League (TCL) in 2019.

“I’m really excited to be back with the Rougarou,” Southall said. “The college summer leagues are a vital piece in the development of college players. Developing players has always been my favorite part of coaching or managing.”

Southall has helped launch several baseball programs, including LSU’s historic run through the 1990s. He was an assistant under legendary coach Skip Bertman in the late 1980s and helped recruit the 1991 team, which won the first of the Tigers’ six National Championships.

Southall is the owner of Elite Baseball, a consultant for developing baseball through tournaments, programs and facility development which has helped to develop hundreds of college players through the summer travel ball circuit. He also works as an associate professional scout for the Atlanta Braves organization and sits on the advisory board of East Coast Pro Showcase, one of the top showcase events for baseball prospects. He counts 53 players who have reached the Major Leagues as a direct result of his eye for talent.

“He’s a baseball lifer,” said Rougarou owner Ronnie Rantz. “He’s been involved in baseball at every level, from youth leagues all the way up to professionals. We’re excited.”

Southall will be assisted by Bunkie native Blaine Spencer. He played at Louisiana Christian University from 2019-2022 and served as an LCU student coach last season. He currently is the recruiting coordinator and catching coach for the team while teaching special education at Pineville High School.

The Rougarou will begin its 20th season of wood bat collegiate baseball on May 30. This year’s schedule includes 48 games, 24 of which are home dates, with playoff games following the regular season. Baton Rouge will open the season with three consecutive home games, beginning with a game against the Acadiana Cane Cutters on Tuesday, May 30. The Victoria Generals will visit on May 31 and the Seguin River Monsters come to town on June 1.

Visit brrougarou.com for the full schedule and find information on season passes, individual tickets, merchandise and sponsorship opportunities.