Spanberger, Razorbacks Eliminate Auburn from SEC Tournament

Jay Estes (Photo: Auburn Athletics/Wade Rackley)

Auburn entered their Thursday elimination game with Arkansas with momentum on their side. That was until momentum met Arkansas first baseman Chad Spanberger. The junior took Auburn pitching over the wall three times, as his Razorbacks downed Auburn, 12-0 in seven innings, to close out Auburn’s stay in Hoover. Arkansas met Auburn after playing one game already on the day, a 4-3 loss to Mississippi State. But after a performance that saw many tournament records broken, it seemed as if Thursday’s elimination game was the only time that the Hogs had played that day. Spanberger hit three home runs in consecutive at-bats: a solo shot in the first, a two-run blast in the second, and a grand slam in the fourth. The Razorback first baseman ended with three hits and seven RBI on the day. He was also intentionally walked, and grounded into a fielder’s choice. Razorback pitching was also a major storyline in this game. Three pitchers were used in the win, neither allowing a hit to an Auburn batter. Dominic Taccolini started the game, lasting two innings and allowing four walks before being replaced by Matt Cronin. Cronin allowed four Tiger base runners in three innings, walking three and hitting one with a pitch. Finally, Josh Alberius closed the game by tossing two perfect innings, striking out one. Auburn will now await their postseason fate. Their NCAA Regional destination will be announced on Monday at 11 A.M.