Auburn defeats Jax State 9-7, advances to face Clemson

It wasn't easy, and it wasn't always pretty, but for the second time this season, Auburn prevailed 9-7 over the in-state Jacksonville State Gamecocks. Cory Luckie got into trouble early in the 1st, but managed to squeeze out with only one run allowed. Luckie went 3.2 innings before giving way to Slade Smith. The Tigers and Gamecocks exchanged leads and ties through out the game, but Auburn went up for good in the 8th with a solo shot from shortstop Casey McElroy. The long ball continued to prove as Auburn's catalyst, with McElroy, Dan Gamache, and Justin Fradejas all hitting home runs. Gamache was robbed in the 4th inning of a grand slam. Gamecock centerfielder Daniel Anderson reached above the orange line in center to deny Gamache. Tiger closer Austin Hubbard came in to relieve Slade Smith in the 7th and closed the game out, despite allowing two runs. Auburn moves into the winners bracket to face the Clemson Tigers at 6 pm tomorrow night. Clemson blasted Southern Miss 10-1 in the 2 pm game. Only Terrace Level seats remain for tomorrows matchup at Plainsman Park.