Kade Anderson leads LSU to 4-1 CWS victory over Arkansas

OMAHA, Neb. — In a thrilling game at the College World Series on Saturday night, LSU triumphed over Arkansas with a 4-1 victory, thanks to Kade Anderson’s stellar pitching performance.
Known for their high-caliber offense, the Arkansas Razorbacks were held to just three hits and one run by Anderson, who pitched seven-plus innings. Anderson, who is anticipated to be a top pick in the upcoming MLB draft, used a mix of four pitches to keep Arkansas hitters at bay. He racked up seven strikeouts, elevating his season total to 170, the best in the nation.
“It was an outstanding performance, the kind we’re used to seeing every weekend,” said LSU coach Jay Johnson. “He got stronger as the game went on, and executed his pitches at a high level, which is essential against such an offense. Offensively, we did just enough to secure the win.”
LSU, boasting a 49-15 record, continued its undefeated streak in CWS meetings with Arkansas, who now stands at 48-14 and is in search of their first national title. The Tigers will face UCLA on Monday in their quest for a second championship in three years. Arkansas, participating in their 12th CWS, will take on Murray State in an elimination game on Monday.
“We need to move beyond this game and stay focused,” said Arkansas coach Dave Van Horn. “Monday’s game is crucial. If we don’t perform, there’s no chance for Tuesday. We can’t let pressure get to us. This team has demonstrated resilience throughout the season.”
This showdown between the Razorbacks, a No. 3 national seed, and the No. 6 Tigers marked a significant first: the top two remaining seeds meeting in their CWS opener since the NCAA adopted the current format in 1999.
The Tigers quickly took a 3-0 lead in the second inning, capitalizing on early opportunities. Razorbacks ace Zach Root, who had an early exit after 1 2/3 innings, allowed two walks and a bunt single to Daniel Dickinson, which loaded the bases. Chris Stanfield hit an RBI single, and Michael Braswell III was hit by a pitch to bring in another run. The final run of the inning scored on a fielder’s choice as Josh Pearson beat the throw to first.
“When you face pitchers of that quality, runs become harder to come by, unlike in SEC games where homers are frequent,” Johnson commented. “Getting the lead was crucial, knowing how games can unfold here.”
Taking Root out early was a difficult decision for Van Horn. “The game was slipping away from us,” he said. “With the wind blowing in, scoring against Anderson seemed unlikely. It was a tough call, but I believe it was necessary.”
Gabe Gaeckle stepped in from the bullpen and kept Arkansas in the hunt. He conceded just three hits, claiming a career-high 10 strikeouts over six innings.
Gaeckle exited in the eighth with two outs and a runner on second. Cole Gibler took over, and Derek Curiel sent an 0-2 pitch into left field to add an insurance run.
Anderson (11-1) remained dominant until the sixth inning when Reese Robinett recorded his third homer of the season.
“It was a special moment,” Anderson remarked of the game. “This is what you come here for. I’m proud that we secured the win—stat lines aside, the victory is what matters.”
Anderson, hailing from Madisonville, Louisiana, completed seven innings for the third straight game and left after Cam Kozeal hit a single to start the eighth. Chase Shores then retired three batters in a row before freshman Casan Evans was brought in for the ninth. Evans managed to shut down the Razorbacks despite a leadoff single by Charles Davalan, securing the win.
The more than 25,000 attendees were divided almost equally in their support. Before the game commenced, Arkansas supporters responded to LSU’s enthusiastic cheers with their traditional “Wooooooooo. Pig. Sooie!” chant.
In the front row, influencer and former LSU gymnast Livvy Dunne supported the team wearing a split LSU and Pittsburgh Pirates No. 30 jersey, showcasing her boyfriend Paul Skenes’ name—a former LSU ace in 2023 rapidly rising in the majors.