Jays prospect Doughty credits LSU for “change the narrative” mentality

Infield prospect Cade Doughty was selected 78th overall by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2022 MLB draft. He is working hard to make a positive impression at Blue Jays camp this year. Photo: Jake Schulz

March 27, 2023

By Jake Schulz

Centennial Sports Journalism

DUNEDIN, Fla. – King Cade’s time at Louisiana State University has given him all the tools to succeed at the highest level.

Infielder Cade Doughty was selected 78th overall in the 2022 MLB Draft by the Toronto Blue Jays, yet that was not the first time he was drafted into the league.

The 22-year-old from Louisiana was originally drafted back in 2019 by the Detroit Tigers in the 39th round, but never intended on playing for the team.

“I was 100 per cent going to college, no matter what,” Doughty said in an interview at the Blue Jays training facility. “I was really surprised (Detroit) picked me in the 39th round. I think it was kind of a big waste.”

Doughty decided to attend LSU, a school that is very much accustomed to his family. He grew up 25 minutes away and is the fourth generation in his family to play sports for the Tigers.

He never felt any pressure to live up to his family’s name.

“I knew I was going to (be successful). That was my goal going to LSU; to change the narrative. And hopefully I did that and represented LSU in a great way, because they’ve done a lot for me, and hopefully I’ve done a good amount for them.”

Doughty made an immediate impact for the team, as his first at bat for LSU was a home run.

“I blacked out. I don’t remember much about that,” Doughty said, laughing. “Obviously it was the best start you can think of.”

In his three years with the Tigers, Doughty hit 30 home runs with a rousing .541 slugging percentage. He cited his former coach, Jay Johnson, as one of the biggest reasons he’s in his current position.

“I’ve learned so much from him … His whole work ethic, preparation, attention to details was all things that I’m going to take with me to this next level.”

Now, he has turned his attention to the Blue Jays. In 26 games for Single-A Dunedin in 2022, Doughty had a .272 batting average, with 28 total hits, and six home runs.

“I like to pride myself on being more of a gritty type of competitor,” he said. “Just being able to do the little things … (I might not be) the flashiest guy, but I’m always doing what you’re told to get your job done.”