Baton Rouge, La. — A powerful display of batting prowess led LSU to a triumphant 16-9 victory over West Virginia in the opening game of the Baton Rouge Super Regional on Saturday. Key highlights of the game included grand slams by both Steven Milam and Josh Pearson, while Derek Curiel contributed significantly, driving in five runs.
Milam’s grand slam was a highlight of LSU’s impressive seven-run fifth inning. Following that, Pearson’s slam concluded an explosive six-run sixth inning, giving the Tigers a formidable 16-5 advantage.
Curiel’s contributions were pivotal, as he managed to send a three-run home run off West Virginia starter Griffin Kirn in the fourth inning. He continued his streak with an RBI single in the fifth and secured a bases-loaded walk in the sixth.
Despite LSU’s impressive tally of 16 runs coming from just eight hits, they effectively capitalized on eight walks and one error from West Virginia. The Mountaineers fought back with two-run homers from Gavin Kelly in the seventh inning and Kyle West in the ninth, demonstrating commendable resilience.
LSU’s starting pitcher, Kade Anderson, secured the win, despite allowing seven runs, of which six were earned over seven innings. Game 2 is scheduled for Sunday, with LSU (47-15) poised just one win away from reaching the College World Series for the second time in three years, a feat they are familiar with, having made 19 previous appearances and captured seven championships.
West Virginia, holding a record of 44-15, looked to make a statement with this game, following their debut super regional appearance against North Carolina last year.