Tennessee Baseball Clinches Series with Dramatic Walk-Off Against Auburn
In a thrilling matchup that spanned two days, Tennessee baseball defeated Auburn 5-4 in extra innings, leveling their series. Freshman Chris Newstrom emerged as the hero, pinching hitting for the Vols and driving a grounder into the outfield with the bases loaded to secure the walk-off victory. The game, originally slated to start Saturday, was marred by inclement weather, leading to delays and ultimately a suspension until Sunday.
The No. 12 Vols (37-10, 14-9 SEC) aimed to bounce back after the No. 10 Tigers (32-15, 12-11) claimed victory in their first game of the series. Despite the win, Tennessee struggled significantly, recording two errors and stranding 13 runners on base, while managing 17 hits.
Pitcher Marcus Phillips started for the Vols and lasted 4.1 innings, conceding three runs (two earned) on five hits. Relief pitcher Dylan Loy stepped up, delivering an impressive 3.2 innings, yielding just one run on a single hit and striking out three. Liam Doyle took over in extra innings, preventing any further scoring from Auburn.
The game unfolded with Tennessee starting off on shaky ground, allowing two runs in the first inning. However, the Vols rallied, with Hunter Ensley delivering a standout performance, going 4-for-6 with two RBIs, including a crucial single that contributed to their comeback.
Auburn took a brief lead in the ninth, but Dalton Bargo’s solo homer sent the game into extras just as rain began to pour. In the bottom of the 11th, after loading the bases, Newstrom’s grounder sealed the victory for Tennessee.
The series continues with game three starting shortly after. Following this series, the Vols will host Indiana State and face Vanderbilt in a weekend series, leading into the SEC Tournament beginning May 20.
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