Arkansas and James Madison will close out their season-opening series on Monday from Baum-Walker Stadium.
James Madison took game three with a 7-3 win over the Hogs and are seeking to split the set.
Arkansas had a decent day at the plate, recording 10 hits, six walks, and one hit-by-pitch. Unfortunately, finishing was not part of the equation on Sunday afternoon. Arkansas stranded runners on base nearly every scoreless inning, including one with the bases were loaded. One big hit could have been a difference in the game.
Arkansas was a bit lacking when it came to finishing at the plate, but the real damage was done when an otherwise stellar pitching performance imploded in the top of the seventh. Freshman Gabe Gaeckle rolled through the fifth and sixth innings, allowing just one walk. In the seventh, the underclassman was pulled after loading the bases and replaced with right-hander Jake Faherty. Subsequently, Faherty allowed all three to score, plus one more earned by him.
The Hogs tend to drop in hitting production after big games, so Sunday’s performance is nothing new. One reason Arkansas had so much trouble was because of righty Joe Vogatsky. With the 2023 draftee likely not playing on Monday, Arkansas is primed to take the series.
If the Diamond Hogs can finish innings and avoid pitching disasters, Arkansas should roll through the final game with little adversity. The Dukes will be strapped for arms toward the middle of the game. James Madison has spent 16 of its pitchers in three games. Arkansas’ hitters should be able to take advantage.
If you’re not able to make the game, here’s how you can watch/listen.