In a thrilling showdown at Globe Life Field, No. 5 Auburn staged a remarkable comeback to defeat No.
9 Florida State 8-5, overcoming an early four-run deficit. This victory marked Auburn's second triumph over a top-10 team in the Amegy Bank College Baseball Series within two years and extended their winning streak in the tournament to seven games.
Head coach Butch Thompson praised his team’s resilience, particularly highlighting Jackson Sanders’ performance on the mound. "That looked a little bit more like us," Thompson remarked.
Sanders, despite a rocky start, showed impressive grit by not allowing another hit after the first inning and retiring the last 10 batters he faced. His career-high nine strikeouts over five innings were pivotal in stabilizing the game.
Offensively, Auburn was relentless, scoring seven unanswered runs between the second and seventh innings. Bristol Carter and Brandon McCraine were instrumental, each contributing three hits as the Tigers amassed 11 hits for the second consecutive day.
Thompson emphasized the team's focus and determination. "I told our team, don’t look at that scoreboard. Just get to six," he said, underscoring the importance of maintaining focus and grit.
McCraine echoed the sentiment, praising Sanders' ability to rebound after the first inning. "He held them there and gave us a great chance," McCraine said, reflecting the team's confidence and unity.
The turning point came in the fifth inning, with Chase Fralick's two-out, two-RBI triple giving Auburn the lead. Jett Johnston then took over for Sanders, maintaining the momentum by keeping Florida State in check and allowing Auburn to extend their lead.
Johnston, focused on precision, stated, "Fill it up. No room for walks or anything like that." His strategy paid off, contributing significantly to Auburn's defensive efforts.
Florida State initially jumped ahead with a strong first inning, but Auburn responded with a steady offensive push. Caiden Combs’ RBI groundout and Carter’s solo home run began chipping away at the Seminoles' lead. Carter, who went 3-for-3 with a walk and two runs, was a standout performer.
The Tigers continued their rally in the fifth, with Eric Guevara’s clutch single setting the stage for Fralick’s decisive hit. McCraine’s triple in the sixth and Logan Gregorio’s sacrifice fly further extended Auburn’s advantage.
Though Florida State managed a run in the eighth, Ryan Hetzler closed the door, earning his first save of the season by stranding two runners in scoring position and delivering a flawless ninth inning.
Auburn added an insurance run thanks to a series of wild pitches by Florida State, sealing the victory. The Tigers will look to maintain their momentum as they face No. 15 Louisville to wrap up the weekend in Arlington.