No. 22 Arkansas Looks to Clinch Series Against No. 8 Alabama

Razorbacks aim to build on Game 1 comeback win in Tuscaloosa

Apr. 11, 2026 at 11:44am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic action of a college baseball game, with sharp planes of color representing the competing teams.A cubist interpretation of the high-stakes college baseball matchup between Arkansas and Alabama.Tuscaloosa Today

The No. 22 Arkansas Razorbacks will look to clinch a crucial series over the No. 8 Alabama Crimson Tide on Saturday afternoon. After rallying for a 6-run 8th inning to win Game 1 on Friday, Arkansas will send left-hander Cole Gibler to the mound against Alabama's Zane Adams.

Why it matters

This SEC baseball series between two ranked teams has major implications for the conference standings and NCAA Tournament seeding. Arkansas is looking to build momentum after a thrilling comeback win, while Alabama hopes to even the series at home.

The details

In Friday's Game 1, Arkansas trailed 2-0 before a leadoff homer by Camden Kozeal sparked a 6-run 8th inning that included a 2-run shot by TJ Pompey. Lefty Hunter Dietz had another strong outing, going 6 innings and allowing 2 earned runs. On Saturday, Arkansas will start Cole Gibler (3-0, 2.57 ERA) while Alabama counters with Zane Adams (4-2, 4.07 ERA).

  • The series opener was played on Friday, April 11, 2026.
  • Saturday's Game 2 is scheduled for 4 p.m. CT on April 12, 2026.

The players

Camden Kozeal

Arkansas outfielder who hit a leadoff homer to spark the Razorbacks' 6-run 8th inning rally in Game 1.

TJ Pompey

Arkansas infielder who hit a 2-run homer as part of the Razorbacks' big 8th inning in Game 1.

Hunter Dietz

Arkansas left-handed pitcher who threw 6 innings of 3-hit, 2-run ball in the Game 1 win.

Cole Gibler

Arkansas left-handed pitcher who will start Game 2 with a 3-0 record and 2.57 ERA.

Zane Adams

Alabama left-handed pitcher who will start Game 2 with a 4-2 record and 4.07 ERA.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must capitalize on the momentum from that big 8th inning comeback. It's going to take another complete team effort to clinch this series on the road.”

— Dave Van Horn, Arkansas Head Coach

What’s next

The winner of Saturday's Game 2 will have the chance to clinch the series in Sunday's finale.

The takeaway

This SEC baseball series between two ranked teams has major postseason implications, with Arkansas looking to build on its thrilling Game 1 comeback and Alabama aiming to even the series at home.