Tennessee capitalized on the struggles of Alabama A&M’s pitching staff, which had difficulty finding the strike zone, resulting in double-digit runs once again despite recording only 12 hits in the victory.
Tony Vitello utilized this midweek game as an opportunity to provide playing time for several players who typically don’t see much action, both in the lineup and on the mound. From the start, it was essentially a bullpen game, with Dylan Loy starting but only pitching one inning after allowing a single with no outs.
The offense wasted no time, as Blake Burke’s double followed by Dylan Dreiling’s RBI single on a 2-0 count set the tone in the first inning, where the Bulldogs’ pitchers struggled with control, issuing walks and hitting batters. Tennessee managed to score three runs in the first inning without needing to put the ball in play for every run.
JJ Garcia took over pitching duties in the second inning, striking out two of the three batters he faced. Although the offense didn’t score in the second inning, it was the only inning where Tennessee didn’t register a run throughout the game.
Tennessee continued to pile on runs, including a four-run third inning fueled by walks and a bases-clearing double by Christian Moore. Despite Alabama A&M scoring two runs in the fourth inning, Tennessee’s offense remained dominant, scoring three runs in the fourth, one in the fifth, and an impressive nine-run sixth inning, triggering the run-rule and ending the game prematurely.
Colby Backus, a former Walters State CC transfer, made significant contributions both defensively and offensively after entering the game as a pinch runner in the third inning. Backus stole a base and later hit a two-run homer in the sixth inning, showcasing his versatility and impact on the game.
Several freshmen players showcased their talents during the blowout victory, with standout defensive plays and offensive contributions, highlighting the depth and potential of Tennessee’s roster.
