The No. 1/2 Tennessee Volunteers baseball team showcased their dominance over the weekend, completing a series sweep against the St. Bonaventure Bonnies with a commanding 13-2 run-rule victory on Sunday afternoon at Lindsey Nelson Stadium.
This win not only extended their unbeaten streak but also set a new program record with 16 consecutive victories to start the season.
Sunday’s Offensive Onslaught
Tennessee’s offense was relentless in the series finale, launching five home runs to secure the run-rule win. Redshirt freshman catcher Stone Lawless led the charge, belting two home runs and driving in four runs. His second homer, a two-run shot in the seventh inning, sealed the game.
Freshman designated hitter Levi Clark continued his impressive debut season, hitting his sixth home run—a two-run blast—in the third inning. Clark’s consistent power has been a significant asset for the Volunteers this season.
Pitching Depth on Display
Tennessee utilized a committee approach on the mound, deploying nine pitchers over seven innings. The staff collectively struck out 13 batters, with Brandon Arvidson and Ryan Combs each recording three strikeouts. Tegan Kuhns earned the win, pitching 1.1 innings of relief and allowing one unearned run on two hits.
Series Highlights
Friday: The Volunteers opened the series with a historic combined no-hitter, marking the program’s first since 2002, leading to a 12-0 victory.
Saturday: Tennessee secured an 11-1 win, highlighted by freshman infielder Manny Marin’s walk-off grand slam in the seventh inning. Starting pitcher Marcus Phillips delivered a stellar performance, allowing one run on three hits over 5.2 innings while striking out five.
Looking Ahead
The Volunteers aim to maintain their momentum as they continue their homestand with a midweek game against West Georgia on Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. They will then commence Southeastern Conference play against No. 6/7 Florida next Friday night at Lindsey Nelson Stadium.
Tennessee’s remarkable start has solidified their status as a formidable force in college baseball, with aspirations of sustaining their unbeaten streak and making a deep postseason run.
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