Weather took away Alabama’s Tuesday game against Troy, postponing it until May 12. As of Tuesday morning, UA still has a 2 p.m. Wednesday game scheduled with Alabama State, to be broadcast on SEC Network+.
Alabama State
The Hornets are one of the favorites in the SWAC (alongside Southern and Jackson State) and they solidified that status on opening weekend by sweeping the Andre Dawson Classic: 12-0 over Prairie View A&M in seven innings, 6-5 over Arkansas-Pine Bluff and 5-2 over Southern in 10 innings.
Senior outfielder Cameron Hearn was the standout hitter: he hit .429 and was responsible for two of Alabama State’s six extra-base hits, one triple and one home run. Juniors Ian Matos and Dylan Espinal hit .417 each, both going 5-for-12 and driving in three runs each; two of Espinal’s five hits were doubles. Cristopher DeGuzman drew three walks, hit .300 and stole a base.
Alabama State also has the SWAC Preseason Player of the Year in catcher/DH Santiago Garcia, who hit .308 over opening weekend.
Britt Buckelew had a really good relief outing, but he threw five innings on Sunday, so I’m curious about his availability for a Wednesday game — especially when Alabama State is hosting Oakland and Eastern Illinois over the weekend, games one could argue it needs to win more than this midweek game in Tuscaloosa.
Reach Brett Hudson at 205-722-0196 or bhudson@tuscaloosanews.com or via Twitter, @Brett_Hudson
