Arkansas returns to Baum-Walker Stadium to host Mississippi State in their final college baseball SEC home series of the season. The first pitch between the Razorbacks and Bulldogs is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Friday, May 10.
What? Mississippi State at Arkansas Razorbacks, College Baseball SEC
Where? Baum-Walker Stadium, Arkansas, Live on SECN+
The No. 2 ranked Arkansas Razorbacks (40-9, 17-7 SEC) faced a 7-4 defeat in the rubber match against No. 8 Kentucky, marking only their second weekend series loss this season.
This loss to the Wildcats was the first time since 2012 that the Razorbacks lost a series against them and the first road series defeat in Lexington since 2011. Despite this setback, Arkansas remains at the top of the SEC Western Division standings as they head into the upcoming home series against nationally ranked Mississippi State.
Mason Molina returned to the mound after missing his last start due to injury, pitching three innings and allowing three runs with three walks and three strikeouts. Despite his efforts, Kentucky capitalized on reliever Will McEntire, scoring three runs in the fourth inning to take a commanding 6-0 lead. Arkansas struggled early, not recording a hit until the fifth inning when Hudson White singled, sparking a two-run rally.
Arkansas clawed back, scoring a pair of runs in the fifth inning with RBI hits from Wehiwa Aloy and Jared Sprague-Lott. Peyton Stovall, who had a standout performance with three hits including a solo home run, played a crucial role in closing the gap. Stovall, who missed the start of the season due to injury, has been instrumental for the Razorbacks this year, leading the team in hits and ranking highly in several offensive categories.
In relief, Christian Foutch and Gabe Gaeckle pitched effectively, with Gaeckle allowing only one unearned run over three innings of work. Despite their efforts, Arkansas fell short in the end, losing to Kentucky. Stovall’s offensive contributions were notable, showcasing his value to the team’s lineup after returning from injury early in the season.
Mississippi State
The No. 16 Mississippi State Bulldogs were recently defeated by No. 23 Alabama Crimson Tide in their series finale, ending with a 10-5 score. The Bulldogs showed strong hitting with ten hits and three walks during the game. Pitcher Brooks Auger took his first loss of the season after giving up two hits and three earned runs over two innings, with Luke Dotson and Karson Ligon combining for five strikeouts. Offensively, Connor Hujsak had a standout performance going 3-for-3 with two RBIs, including a solo home run, while Logan Kohler contributed with a 2-for-4 display featuring two solo home runs. Dakota Jordan also contributed with a 2-for-4 performance with one RBI.
Prediction
With both teams coming off losses, Arkansas will look to rebound at home against Mississippi State. The Razorbacks aim to regain their momentum after a tough road series, while the Bulldogs seek to bounce back from their recent defeat. This matchup promises to be an exciting clash between two talented SEC teams, featuring strong pitching and hitting on both sides. I expect Arkansas to bounce back with a win.
Arkansas Razorbacks -1.5Arkansas at Mississippi State
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Starting out in the betting industry, Henry later found his calling in sports writing. Specializing in soccer, golf, and darts, he also offers insights into a wide array of sports across the globe. After earning a BA Honors degree in Business and Management, Henry advanced through the ranks at William Hill in England. His career isn't just limited to sports; he's also made a mark in Property and Finance, fields in which he remains engaged. Henry now resides in Barcelona, where he enjoys playing golf year-round as part of the Real Federacion Espanola de Golf.