Skip Bertman, Death: Legendary LSU Coach Dies At 88 after Heart Complications
Legendary LSU baseball coach and former athletic director Skip Bertman has died at the age of 88. Bertman passed away on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Baton Rouge General Hospital, where he had been receiving medical care. According to reports, he died at 1:12 a.m. surrounded by his daughters. Bertman leaves behind one of the most influential legacies in the history of LSU athletics and college baseball. He took over as LSU’s head baseball coach in 1984 and transformed the program into a national powerhouse.
During his 18 seasons at the helm, Bertman guided the Tigers to five College World Series national championships in 1991, 1993, 1996, 1997, and 2000. LSU also made 11 College World Series appearances and captured seven Southeastern Conference championships during his tenure. His remarkable coaching record included 870 victories, 330 losses, and three ties, giving him a winning percentage of .724. His success extended beyond LSU, as Bertman served as an assistant coach for the United States Olympic baseball team that won gold in 1988 before becoming head coach of the 1996 U.S. team, which earned a bronze medal in Atlanta.
After retiring from coaching following the 2001 season, Bertman became LSU’s athletic director, serving in the role until 2008. He helped oversee major facility improvements and continued strengthening LSU’s athletic programs. The field at LSU’s baseball stadium was eventually named Skip Bertman Field in his honor.
Bertman’s influence was recognized through numerous honors, including induction into the College Baseball Hall of Fame and multiple coaching awards. His contributions helped establish LSU baseball as one of college sports’ most celebrated programs. He is survived by his daughters Jan, Jodi, and Lori, along with his grandchildren. His death marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in LSU baseball history, but his influence on the program and generations of athletes will endure.
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