Arkansas Hogs Aim to Take Series at No. 8 Alabama

The Razorbacks look to clinch the series after winning Game 1 in Tuscaloosa

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:03pm

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A cubist-style painting featuring sharp, angular shapes and bold colors that represent the players, action, and energy of a college baseball game, without any identifiable individuals or logos.A cubist interpretation of the high-stakes college baseball matchup between Arkansas and Alabama, capturing the intensity and dynamism of the game through fragmented geometric forms.Tuscaloosa Today

The No. 22 Arkansas Razorbacks shocked the No. 8 Alabama Crimson Tide 7-5 in the series opener on Friday. Now the Hogs have a chance to clinch the series with a win in Game 2 on Saturday afternoon at Sewell-Thomas Stadium in Tuscaloosa.

Why it matters

Conference series wins are crucial in the SEC, and this weekend's matchup is an important opportunity for Arkansas to improve its standing in the league standings after a rocky stretch earlier in the season. A series victory over a top-10 opponent on the road would be a big momentum boost for the Razorbacks.

The details

Arkansas sends left-hander Cole Gibler, who is 3-0 with a 2.57 ERA, to the mound for Game 2. Alabama counters with left-hander Zane Adams, who is 4-2 with a 4.07 ERA. The Razorbacks will look to capitalize on any mistakes by Adams early and secure the series win. If the series goes to a deciding Game 3 on Sunday, Arkansas has not yet named a starter, while Alabama plans to send right-hander Myles Upchurch to the hill.

  • The series opener was played on Friday, April 11.
  • Game 2 is set for Saturday, April 11 at 4 p.m. CT.
  • Game 3, if necessary, will be played on Sunday, April 12 at 1 p.m. CT.

The players

Cole Gibler

The left-handed starting pitcher for Arkansas, who carries a 3-0 record and 2.57 ERA into the Game 2 matchup.

Zane Adams

The left-handed starting pitcher for Alabama, who is 4-2 with a 4.07 ERA this season.

Myles Upchurch

The right-handed starting pitcher Alabama plans to use in Game 3 if the series goes the distance, as he is 4-2 with a 3.60 ERA.

Dave Van Horn

The head coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks, who has a 39-31 record against Alabama during his tenure.

Rob Vaughn

The head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide, who is in his third season leading the program and has compiled a 100-51 record, including 37-36 in SEC play.

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What’s next

If Arkansas wins Game 2 on Saturday, they will clinch the series against Alabama. If the series goes to a deciding Game 3 on Sunday, the Razorbacks have not yet named a starting pitcher, while Alabama plans to send Myles Upchurch to the mound.

The takeaway

This weekend's series between Arkansas and Alabama is a crucial one for the Razorbacks, as they look to build momentum and improve their standing in the SEC standings. A series win over a top-10 opponent on the road would be a significant accomplishment for Dave Van Horn's squad.