No. 17 LSU lost to No. 1 Tennessee, 8-5, in the series finale on March 8 at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville.
The game was significant as it marked a sweep for Tennessee, who remain undefeated this season. LSU started strong with a four-run lead but could not hold off Tennessee’s comeback.
LSU (17-7, 0-3 SEC) took an early advantage for the second straight game, scoring four runs by the third inning. Rylie Johnson hit her first collegiate home run and Jalia Lassiter added her third of the season. Alix Franklin, Avery Hodge, and Tori Edwards also contributed hits for LSU. Jayden Heavener pitched her eighth complete game of the year but allowed eight hits and seven earned runs over seven innings.
Tennessee (23-0, 3-0 SEC) responded with five unanswered runs before LSU tied the score at five in the sixth inning after three consecutive two-out walks loaded the bases and another walk brought in a run. In the bottom of the seventh, Gabby Leach hit a three-run home run to secure Tennessee’s win and complete their sweep of LSU.
Erin Nuwer earned her tenth win of the season for Tennessee after pitching a total of 2.1 innings without allowing any runs or hits. Sage Mardjetko pitched most of the middle innings for Tennessee, giving up three runs on two hits.
LSU will next play against Nicholls on Tuesday, March 10 in Thibodaux before returning to Southeastern Conference play against Texas A&M at Tiger Park from March 14 to March 16.
