One of the most critical series for Alabama baseball in recent memory will take place this weekend when the Crimson Tide take on their in-state rivals the Auburn Tigers.
Alabama has yet to win a conference series this season and the schedule will not get any easier in the rugged SEC.
This is not only a must wins series for the Crimson Tide, but Auburn is also in desperate need of a series win in conference play.
Alabama’s bullpen has struggled this season and has led to several of the Crimson Tide’s losses. Auburn’s starting rotation has been up and down and that has led to the Tigers’ struggles this season.
Let’s go behind enemy lines with Taylor Jones of Auburn Wire to preview the pivotal series between Alabama and Auburn.
Auburn is coming off a series loss to Texas A&M and a midweek loss to Georiga Tech. How important is this series against Alabama for the Tigers?
This series is a must win for Auburn. After this weekend, Auburn has crucial series with South Carolina and LSU on the horizon. A weekend series win in Tuscaloosa, as well as a series win next weekend against Mississippi State, will give them much needed momentum ahead of two, late-season challenges.
What has been Auburn’s Achilles heel this season?
Pitching has been a question mark all season. Auburn lost two weekend starters in Trace Bright and Mason Barnett, as well as closer Blake Burkhalter, to the MLB draft. Joseph Gonzalez was expected to be the ace of the weekend rotation, but a shoulder injury has allowed him to make just one start this season. Butch Thompson has had to use a mixed bag over the season, and hasn’t found a consistent arm to rely on yet.
Bryson Ware has been an absolute stud at the plate for the Tigers this season. What has led to his strong senior season at the plate?
After losing four of last season’s top batters, Ware’s production has been a fresh air. In an offense with many fresh faces, Ware has taken on the role of leader and has played the part well.
Who are other batters/fielders that Alabama fans should keep an eye on?
Freshman Ike Irish, as well as junior Cole Foster, have been valuable in the lineup by getting on base and by plating runs. From the power aspect, Justin Kirby has complimented Ware by smashing home runs. All three of those players are important to Auburn’s lineup, and will be needed as the Tigers hope to earn a series…
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