Alabama Falls to Texas After Late-Inning Rally in Game Two

Austin, TX – Alabama lost its second consecutive SEC series after falling in two straight games against No. 4 Texas, including a 3-1 defeat in game two. The Longhorns secured the series with a decisive three-run outburst in the bottom of the seventh inning, clinching the win over the Crimson Tide.

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Alabama struck first with an RBI double from outfielder Brady Neal, marking his 38th RBI and 14th double of the season. Neal drove in center fielder and leadoff batter Bryce Fowler, who drew a walk to open the game, giving the Tide a 1-0 lead heading into the bottom of the first inning.

Alabama pitcher Zane Adams delivered a phenomenal performance, tossing six scoreless innings with seven strikeouts, five hits allowed, and two walks. He kept the Tide in the game as the offense struggled to build on its early lead, maintaining a one-run advantage throughout his start.

Texas starting pitcher Ruger Riojas challenged Alabama's hitters after allowing his only run in the first inning. The senior went on to strike out 11 batters and limited the Tide to just three hits over five innings.

The Longhorns’ offense came alive in the bottom of the seventh when junior left-handed reliever Matthew Heiberger replaced Adams. Texas tied the game with an RBI single from right fielder Jayden Duplantier, his first hit of the game, leaving the bases loaded. Heiberger’s outing ended after 22 pitches, having walked two and allowed two hits.

The Crimson Tide turned to Sam Mitchell out of the bullpen, bringing him into a tough situation with the bases loaded and no outs in the bottom of the seventh. Mitchell managed to slow the Longhorns’ momentum, but still allowed two runs to score, one on an RBI single by catcher Carson Tinney and another on a sacrifice fly by shortstop Adrian Rodriguez, giving Texas a 3-1 lead heading into the final two innings.

Alabama’s offense couldn’t mount a comeback, allowing the Longhorns to preserve their two-run lead and secure the victory.

Alabama falls to 27-13 overall and 8-9 in conference play after losing its fifth straight game against an SEC opponent. The Crimson Tide will look to avoid a second consecutive series sweep in Sunday’s game three matchup, with first pitch scheduled for 1 p.m. CT.

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