Arkansas Razorbacks Face Elimination in College World Series Showdown

OMAHA, Neb. – The Arkansas Razorbacks are in must-win mode at the College World Series as they prepare to face Murray State in an elimination game on Monday, June 16, at 1 p.m. at Charles Schwab Field Omaha.

With a season record of 48-14, Arkansas aims to bounce back after losing their tournament opener to LSU, 4-1. The Razorbacks must win this game to continue their pursuit of the championship, while Murray State, holding a 44-16 record, faces elimination after their 6-4 loss to UCLA.

The anticipation is high as Monday’s game promises to be a fierce matchup. Mike Monaco will provide play-by-play commentary alongside analysts Ben McDonald and Chris Burke, with Dani Wexelman on the field during the broadcast on ESPN.

Entering this elimination game, the Razorbacks have an impressive all-time record of 8-0 against Murray State, including a 6-0 record under head coach Dave Van Horn. Arkansas successfully swept the Racers in their previous home series in both 2021 and 2024.

This College World Series format has proven challenging, with only three teams since 2003 managing to advance to the championship series after falling into the losers bracket. The task before the Razorbacks is difficult yet historic; they aim to become the first team to win four games in four days following a loss in this round.

Arkansas will take the mound with right-handed pitcher Gage Wood, boasting a 3-1 record and a 5.02 ERA. His opposing pitcher from Murray State is Isaac Silva, who has a 9-2 record and a 5.09 ERA.

The outcome of Monday’s game will determine who stays in the tournament and who goes home, further heightening the intensity of this crucial matchup.