LSU continued its dominant run in SEC play this past weekend, sweeping Mississippi State in a three-game series at Alex Box Stadium.
With strong performances on the mound and at the plate, the Tigers showcased their ability to win close games and put up big offensive numbers when needed.
Game 1
LSU opened the series with a thrilling 8-6 comeback victory in Game 1. The Bulldogs jumped out to an early 2-0 lead, then scored in each of the first five innings, putting the Tigers in a challenging position.
Mississippi State’s offense was powered by home runs from Ace Reese, Hunter Hines and Joe Powell, making it seem that LSU was almost on the verge of dropping the opening game early on and having to play catch-up with the Bulldogs.
However, the Tigers didn’t back down, slowly chipping away at the Bulldog’s lead. A five-run fifth inning proved to be the turning point, as the offense came alive when it mattered most.
LSU’s bullpen on Friday night was crucial in securing the victory. It held Mississippi State scoreless over the final four frames. Tigers closer Griffin Herring recorded the final four outs to earn the save, capping off a resilient LSU comeback.
Game 2
The Tigers edged the Bullgods 2-1 in Game 2 in a classic pitcher’s duel. The game was delayed by over two hours, playing into the early Saturday morning hours. The Tigers’ offense was limited but delivered clutch home runs from designated hitter Ethan Frey in the second inning and catcher Luis Hernandez in the fifth. LSU’s pitching was the night’s saving grace, with runs at a premium.
Starting pitcher Anthony Eyanson was outstanding, allowing just one run over five innings while striking out 12. Reliever Casan Evans followed with four dominant shutout innings, recording six strikeouts and picking up his fifth save of the season.
The pitching staff carried the team, ensuring that the Tigers emerged victorious even with a quiet offensive showing and clinched the series win.
Game 3
The series finale showcased LSU’s explosive offense as they cruised to a 17-8 victory. Unlike the previous two games, where either resilience or pitching carried the team, everything clicked for the Tigers on Saturday.
LSU wasted no time, erupting for an eight-run first inning. First baseman Jared Jones led the charge with a two-run home run and an RBI single in the opening frame. Jones finished the night 3-for-4 with three RBIs and three runs scored.
The first pitch was thrown at 9:36 p.m. due to a weather delay, which lasted four hours and four minutes and saw LSU control the pace from start to finish. Despite a last-minute rally attempt from the Bulldogs, the Tigers’ offensive outburst proved too much, completing the series sweep at 2:44 a.m.
The victories improved LSU’s overall record to 26-3 and 7-2 in SEC play, while Mississippi State fell to 16-12 overall and 1-8 in the conference. With this sweep, LSU redeems its position from last weekend, demonstrating resilience and firepower no matter the circumstance.
The Tigers will look to carry their momentum before hosting Louisiana Tech on Tuesday. LSU will hit then travel to Norman next weekend to take on Oklahoma.
