Vanderbilt lost 8-5 to No. 24 Alabama in the series finale on May 2 at Sewell-Thomas Stadium in Tuscaloosa.
The result marks a setback for the Commodores, who fought back after an early deficit but could not overcome Alabama’s lead. The game featured strong offensive efforts from both teams and several key moments that shaped the outcome.
Alabama took control early, scoring five runs in the first inning with four hits, including a three-run home run. Vanderbilt responded in the second inning when Colin Barczi hit his tenth home run of the season, bringing in three runs after Braden Holcomb singled and Rustan Rigdon was hit by a pitch. In the third inning, Holcomb added another single to drive in Mike Mancini and cut Alabama’s lead to one.
The Crimson Tide increased their advantage again in the fourth inning by scoring two more runs following consecutive walks. Vanderbilt narrowed the gap to two runs when Korbin Reynolds doubled and later scored on Ryker Waite’s sacrifice fly in the seventh inning. Relief pitcher Luke Guth entered with bases loaded but managed to prevent further damage.
Alabama sealed its win with a solo home run in the eighth inning, extending its lead to three runs. Vanderbilt will look ahead as it returns home for its next matchup against Louisville at Hawkins Field.
