Straight off a late-night comeback win over Iowa, Auburn had to turn around for a noon-time first pitch against Wichita State on Saturday. If the Tigers were sleep-deprived, it did not show. Auburn (6-0) ten-run ruled Wichita State (2-4) 19-8.
"That's a good win to get," Auburn right fielder Bobby Peirce said. "We had a late night last night and got right back out here this morning and were able to put some run up quick and do the job. Once the game got going we clicked it into gear and we're off."
Auburn scored in all but two of the seven innings played, including scoring five runs in the top of the first inning. Joseph Gonzalez got the start and racked up his second win of the season. He threw four innings and gave up three earned runs. It was not as sharp of an outing as his first, but with run support behind him, it did not matter.
Wichita State struggled on the mound. The Shockers went through eight pitchers in only seven innings played. Auburn took advantage of the struggling pitching, drawing 16 walks. Auburn also added 10 hits to go along with the free passes.
Cooper McMurray and Bobby Peirce had big days at the plate for Auburn. McMurray went 2-2 with a home run and six RBIs. Peirce went 2-4 with a home run and three RBIs.
"The guys came out ready to play, the offense was ready to play," Auburn head coach Butch Thompson said. "They set the stage, and that's what you're supposed to do. It allowed Cooper McMurray to get a big swing off. We were just focused every inning on our at-bats. Through five innings, that was about as good as this group has played together."
Auburn’s win keeps it undefeated six games into the season. The Tigers will be back in action tomorrow afternoon for the final game on the Jax College Baseball Classic seeking to keep the streak alive. They will face off against No. 10 Virginia at 3:00 p.m. on D1Baseball.com.
