Alabama Stages Dramatic Comeback Against Auburn in SEC Baseball Thriller
No. 8 Alabama (27-5, 7-4 SEC) overcame a rocky start to clinch a 6-5 victory over No. 17 Auburn (21-10, 5-6 SEC) in Saturday’s doubleheader finale, showcasing resilience after a humbling 10-0 run-rule loss in the series opener . The Crimson Tide’s ninth-inning heroics and Auburn’s bullpen struggles turned the tide in a game filled with momentum swings and clutch performances.
Game 1: Auburn Dominates Behind Dutton’s Gem
Auburn’s Sam Dutton silenced Alabama’s bats in the series opener, tossing a 7-inning shutout with just two hits allowed. The Tigers capitalized early, scoring four runs in the first inning en route to a decisive 10-0 victory . Dutton’s dominance left Alabama searching for answers heading into the doubleheader.
Game 2: Crimson Tide’s Ninth-Inning Magic
Alabama bounced back in dramatic fashion, rallying from a 6-3 deficit in the final inning. Sophomore star Justin Lebron delivered the knockout punch with a walk-off three-run homer—his second blast of the season—to seal the 6-5 comeback win . Lebron finished 3-for-5 with 3 RBIs, while junior Richie Bonomolo Jr. added two extra-base hits and two runs .
Key Moments:
- Auburn’s Pitching Woes: Reliever Dylan Watts, who entered with an 8.10 ERA, struggled to contain Alabama’s offense, allowing critical baserunners .
- Eric Snow Injury: Auburn’s leadoff hitter and third baseman left the game in the second inning after being hit by a pitch, undergoing concussion protocol. His absence left a gaping hole in the Tigers’ infield .
- Garrett Staton’s Heroics: The Samford transfer tied the game at 3-3 with a three-run shot in the third inning, shifting momentum early .
Bullpen Battles and Defensive Drama
Auburn’s bullpen nearly held off Alabama’s surge, but errors proved costly. A miscue by Tigers’ outfielder Bryce Fowler allowed a run to score in the fourth inning, extending Auburn’s lead to 6-3 . Meanwhile, Alabama’s Braylon Myers struck out five batters in relief, keeping the Tide within striking distance .
SEC Implications and Rivalry Context
The win strengthens Alabama’s hold on second place in the SEC West, while Auburn’s conference struggles continue. The rivalry’s intensity mirrored last year’s Iron Bowl football clash, where Alabama triumphed 28-14 under first-year coach Kalen DeBoer .
What’s Next?
Alabama looks to build on its momentum as SEC play intensifies, while Auburn aims to regroup. Both teams face critical matchups next week, with NCAA Tournament seeding on the line.
Final Thought: Lebron’s late-game heroics and Auburn’s untimely errors underscored a classic SEC showdown. In a rivalry defined by drama, Alabama’s ninth-inning fireworks proved decisive . 🏆