8:30 a.m. -- Victory lap

Paul Mainieri said the players, after a postgame ceremony, will join with all former LSU players who can be there Sunday and take one last "victory lap" around Alex Box Stadium, slapping and shaking hands with fans in the custom so familiar at the many regionals and super regionals held at The Box.

As many of you know, and as revealed in this set of Alex Box memories as well as this set, a lap around The Box -- win or lose -- can be quite the spectacle and generate an appreciation that will last as long as the memories do. If you're at the game Sunday, you'll want to stick around for this players' tour around the ballpark.

Speaking of The Box, today's story about the people who help make the stadium special is about announcer and LSU baseball publicist Bill Franques. Or, as other reporters have called him, "the voice of God."

I know this: No one can say "Phi Mu Alpha" or even "Please buckle up and drive home safely" and make those words resonate with such distinction the way Bill can. LSU baseball wouldn't be the same without his deep, instantly recognizable voice and dedication to a dignified professionalism.