The No. 14 Auburn Tigers (3-0) are set for a midweek showdown against the UAB Blazers (2-1) following an impressive three-game sweep of Eastern Kentucky.
Auburn head coach Butch Thompson is primed for the challenge, emphasizing the need to build on their weekend success while addressing areas for improvement.
"We have four big games this week, starting with UAB," said Thompson. "We'll recap a little bit from the weekend – the positives, the good. You have to celebrate those, that's really important, and then pick out the strategies and techniques you think you can improve upon."
The Tigers will host the Blazers on Tuesday at 6 p.m. CT at Plainsman Park, with the game broadcast on the Auburn Sports Network and locally on 94.3 FM. Fans can also catch the action via digital streaming on SEC Network+.
In Tuesday's probable starters, Junior Right-Handed Pitcher Conner McBride (0-0, 0.00) will take the mound for Auburn, squaring off against Senior Left-Handed Pitcher Christian Clack (0-0, 27.00) of UAB.
Auburn's dominating performance over Eastern Kentucky showcased their prowess both on the mound and at the plate. The pitching staff held firm, allowing just two earned runs in the final 23.0 innings of the series, boasting an impressive 0.78 ERA. Junior left-hander Carson Myers earned SEC Pitcher of the Week honors after a standout performance in the series finale.
Offensively, the Tigers were equally impressive, outscoring Eastern Kentucky 32-8 over the weekend. Graduate shortstop Cooper Weiss set a program record by stealing four bases in the series finale, while the team collectively stole nine bases – a feat unmatched until March 8th of the previous season.
With an arsenal of offensive talent, including players like Chris Stanfield and Ike Irish, Auburn is poised to maintain their offensive momentum against UAB. The Tigers hold a commanding historical record against the Blazers, with a 54-12 overall record and an impressive 33-3 record at home. Under Coach Thompson's leadership, they've maintained a strong 9-3 record against UAB.
Scouting the Blazers, led by former Auburn All-American catcher Casey Dunn, reveals a competitive opponent coming off a series win against Kennesaw State. Offensively, players like Jake Smallwood and Logan Braunschweig have shown their capabilities, while UAB's pitching staff looks to solidify their performance after posting a 5.00 ERA during the opening series.
As the Tigers and Blazers prepare to clash, both teams are eager to assert their dominance on the field. For Auburn, it's about continuing their winning streak, while UAB seeks to upset the status quo with an early-season victory. Tuesday's matchup promises an exciting display of collegiate baseball talent, with fans eagerly anticipating the outcome.
