Baseball Leaves Tennessee after Positive Exhibition on Sunday Afternoon
10/21/2018 7:05:00 PM | Baseball
The Crimson Tide made strides at the plate and on the mound
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Alabama baseball spent the afternoon in Knoxville, taking part in an exhibition against SEC foe Tennessee. The Crimson Tide and Volunteers took part in 11 traditional innings before closing out the day with seven innings of situational baseball.
The offensive effort was powered by Sam Praytor, as the sophomore finished with a pair of home runs, five RBI and two runs scored. Also contributing a big day was senior Joe Breaux who recorded four hits, including a double, and added two runs scored and a stolen base.
On the mound, the Crimson Tide's newcomers excelled, especially the freshmen. The Alabama arms contributed strong efforts across the board and got out of jams when it was needed, totaling three double plays on the afternoon.
Head Coach Brad Bohannon
Overall thoughts on the day:
"I first want to say that I appreciate Tennessee head coach Tony Vitello and his group for having us up today. I think we all agree that this exhibition was really beneficial for everyone involved.
"Today was a tremendous opportunity for us to see how we stack up against an SEC opponent. I was very pleased with the competitive spirit of our group. A lot of our young arms commanded the ball well, and we defended the field at a high level. We have a lot to improve upon, but I'm very proud of the progress this program has made this Fall."
Assistant Coach Jason Jackson
Overall thoughts on the pitching:
"I'm pleased overall with where the guys are at, but there is still plenty of room for us to improve. It was great to be able to get 10 guys out there in a good environment to see how they responded. Of the 10, eight were newcomers and the five freshmen that threw really stood out. Those guys came in aggressive and attacked the hitters. I was certainly encouraged by what we did on the mound today."
Assistant Coach Jerry Zulli
Overall thoughts on the hitting:
"Today was a very positive day for us. Offensively we were very aggressive in the strike zone and were able to string a lot of competitive at-bats together forcing them to earn all 27 outs. We still have a lot to clean up and get better at, but overall, I was very pleased with the effort and intent of the at-bats.
"Joe Breaux was tremendous setting the table for us, getting on base four times. Sam Praytor had a big day as well, showing that he can be a presence in the middle of the order with his two home runs. I'm really proud of him and the way he has continued to mature as a hitter."
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