HOOVER, Ala. — It was an unforgettable spectacle at the SEC tournament on Saturday, as LSU managed a stunning 12-11 walk-off victory over South Carolina, courtesy of Steven Milam’s two-run homer in the 10th inning. The clash had everything – controversy, drama, and an incredible comeback, encapsulating the sheer unpredictability of baseball at its finest.
With this win, LSU has secured a spot in the SEC tournament championship game, set for 2 p.m. Sunday, where they’ll face the victor of the Tennessee and Vanderbilt match, with the showdown broadcasted on ESPN2.
The game’s climax seemed straight out of a script. LSU thought they had the game in the bag by tagging out Blake Jackson at home to conclude the top of the 10th, but the umpires deemed otherwise. After convening, they ruled a balk against LSU pitcher Griffin Herring and catcher’s interference by Brady Neal, overturning the out and allowing the go-ahead run for South Carolina, sparking confusion and delay.
LSU’s attempt to protest was denied amid the 18-minute holdup, as the umpires classified the decision as a judgment call, beyond review. LSU Coach Jay Johnson’s objections earned him an ejection, his second of the season.
Despite trailing by one run going into the bottom of the 10th, LSU wasn’t done. Hayden Travinski’s walk set the stage for Milam, whose walk-off homer ignited celebrations and capped a dramatic turn of events.
The game wasn’t always leaning towards such a nail-biting finish. LSU trailed significantly early on, with South Carolina jumping to an 8-0 lead by the fourth inning.
However, LSU’s offense woke up, exploiting South Carolina’s defensive errors, and slowly bridged the gap. A series of costly mistakes by South Carolina, combined with timely hits from LSU, including a solo homer by Jared Jones and Michael Braswell’s crucial hits against his former team, set the stage for the thrilling conclusion.
Pitching for LSU went through several hands, from starter Javen Coleman to relievers like Aiden Moffett, who faced a tough inning that saw South Carolina solidify their lead, and Will Hellmers, who kept the deficit manageable. Kade Anderson’s pitching in the ninth allowed LSU to head into the bottom of the inning with a fighting chance, setting up the unforgettable finale.
In essence, the game was a rollercoaster of emotions, showcasing the highs and lows of baseball with LSU emerging victorious amidst controversy and celebration. The team now looks ahead to the championship game, riding the momentum of this epic win.