By Caleb Connelley
The Auburn Tigers took on another tough test at Plainsman Park, as the Wright State Raiders came in for a three-game series. For Butch Thompson's talented team full of impact freshmen, it felt like Auburn needed the sweep, and that's what they got this weekend. The Tigers put on a strong performance over the weekend, the offense was on fire, and the pitching staff delivered solid outings, leading to two run-rule victories and a convincing win in the series finale.
Game One: Auburn 11, Wright State 0 (7 Innings)
In game one of the series, Auburn wasted no time making a statement, jumping out to a five-run lead in the first inning and never looking back. The Tigers offense was relentless, racking up 14 hits and keeping constant pressure on Wright State's pitching. Cooper McMurray and Bub Terrell combined for seven RBIs, with Terrell crushing a three-run home run, giving him his first at the collegiate level.
On the mound, Sam Dutton was nearly untouchable. The right-hander tossed 5.2 scoreless innings, striking out seven batters while allowing just a handful of baserunners. Auburn's bullpen took care of the rest, completing the shutout in just seven innings due to the run-rule.
Game Two: Auburn 11, Wright State 1 (7 Innings)
Game two followed a similar script, as Auburn's offense continues to deliver in key moments. Wright State briefly took a 1-0 lead in the third inning, but that was the only offense the Raiders could muster. The Tigers responded in a big way, scoring 11 unanswered runs over the next three frames to put the game out of reach.
Ike Irish ked the charge at the plate, collecting three hits, while Chase Fralick contributed three RBIs. The Tigers once again showcased their depth in the lineup, with multiple players contributing at the plate. Auburn's pitching staff remained sharp, limiting Wright State to just five hits while striking out eight. The combination of dominant pitching and efficient hitting secured another run-rule victory, with a score of 11-1.
Game Three: Auburn 9, Wright State 4
The series finale was more competitive, with Wright State fighting to avoid the sweep. Auburn took an early lead thanks to a two-run homer from Ike Irish in the first inning, but the scrappy Raiders battled back, cutting the deficit to 5-4 in the sixth on a three-run blast by Cam Gilkerson. However, Auburn quickly responded, flexing its offensive power once again. Bub Terrell and Cole Edwards launched back-to-back home runs in the seventh inning, and then added two more runs in the eighth to put the game out of reach. Auburn's 14 hit performance was another testament to their depth, with contributions coming from up and down the lineup.
The Tigers keep it rolling, earning their sixth straight win after completing the sweep. This sweep marked Auburn's first since February 2024 and solidified their strong start to the season. The Tigers have been firing on all cylinders, with their lineup producing runs at a high rate and the pitching staff keeping opponents in check.
With an 8-1 record, Auburn looks like a team capable of making noise in the SEC as the season progresses. The Tigers beat Samford Tuesday night 15-8 and will next be traveling to Globe Life Field in Arlington, to play in the Amegy Bank College Baseball Series against Ohio State, Oregon State, and Baylor.
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