Texas A&M (53-13) will again attempt to win the College World Series Championship after the Tennessee Volunteers tied the series with a decisive 4-1 victory on Sunday night, taking advantage of two bad pitches that led to four late runs.
Despite the loss, Jace LaViolette’s solo home run was a shining moment for the Aggies, giving them their only lead of the day at 1-0. However, A&M’s inability to convert runners in scoring position and poor base running led to missed opportunities. On the other hand, senior pitcher Chris Cortez’s performance was a standout for the Maroon & White, showcasing his skill and determination.
Recording seven strikeouts in four innings, Cortez’s 99 pitches were more than enough to give the Aggies a chance. After his exit, freshman Kaeden Wilson was solid outside of the two aforementioned pitches that led to every Tennessee run, which is a good sign for a pitching staff that will be nearly 100% healthy heading into Monday night.
WATCH: College World Series Game 3 FREE on Fubo
After the game, head coach Jim Schlossnagle announced that sophomore lefty Justin Lamkin, who is several days removed from throwing 15 strikeouts in two starts against Florida to advance to the Finals, will return to the mound for the decisive Game 3.
With everything on the line, expect reliever Josh Stewart and closer Evan Aschenbeck to be the next in line if the Aggies’ offense can get things going. At the same time, Saturday starter Ryan Prager could also be available if needed.
Back at it tomorrow.#GigEm x #MCWS pic.twitter.com/rQTo5Igt04
— Texas A&M Baseball (@AggieBaseball) June 23, 2024
Texas A&M and Tennessee will attempt to win their first national championship in program history on Monday evening. The first pitch of Game 3 is at 6 p.m. on ESPN (Watch FREE on Fubo) and ESPN+.
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