KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – No. 4/4 Tennessee continued to score runs in bunches with its 13th run-rule victory of the season, toppling Alabama A&M, 20-2, in seven innings on Tuesday night at Lindsey Nelson Stadium.
The Vols (27-6) had 12 different players record one hit apiece as a multitude of players got opportunities at the plate. Christian Moore, Ariel Antigua, Colby Backus and Camden Bates drove in three runs each while Cannon Peebles and Bradke Lohry both had two RBIs to lead the offensive onslaught.
Moore and Antigua both recorded bases-clearing doubles while Backus hit a two-run homer and drew a bases-loaded walk to drive in his three runs. Bates added a three-run home run during UT’s nine-run sixth inning, the first of his collegiate career.
Seven different pitchers saw action for the Big Orange, all of which threw exactly one inning. Freshman lefty Dylan Loy made his second start of the year and tossed a scoreless first inning with a pair of strikeouts to get the Vols off to a strong start.
JJ Garcia was the first arm out of the bullpen and earned his first-career victory after retiring the side in order with two punchouts in the second inning.
Marcus Phillips, Austin Hunley, Brady Robertson and Luke Payne all threw one shutout frame apiece, as well.
Brycen Hammonds led Alabama A&M with a pair of hits while Blake Martin and Jared Tribett both had an RBI.
The Bulldogs (5-26) struggled mightily on the mound, issuing 13 walks and hitting five batters as all four pitchers who saw action allowed five runs.
STAT OF THE GAME: With Tuesday’s victory, UT improved to 9-0 in midweek games this season and has posted five run-rule wins in those nine contests, outscoring their opposition 101-19.
UP NEXT: The Vols host the defending national champion LSU Tigers at Lindsey Nelson Stadium this weekend. First pitch for Friday’s series opener is slated for 7:30 p.m. and will be televised on ESPNU.
