Arkansas Razorbacks Sweep Missouri, Eye No. 1 Ranking

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The Arkansas Razorbacks baseball team swept Missouri this weekend in dominating fashion, ensuring they may ascend to the top of the college baseball rankings on Monday. Arkansas won both ends of a doubleheader, taking the first game 14-4 and the second 16-2, highlighting their explosive hitting and defensive prowess.

With this latest success, Arkansas improved their record to 30-3 overall and 11-1 in Southeastern Conference play, while Missouri fell to 11-20 and 0-12 in the SEC. The Razorbacks’ series sweep was a historic moment, as they outscored the Tigers a staggering 51-9 across the three games.

The two games on Sunday were 7-inning affairs, scheduled due to the need to depart from the series quickly. The Razorbacks showcased their offensive firepower, scoring an average of over 10 runs per game and hitting 16 in both games. Coach Dave Van Horn emphasized the skill of his players, noting, “It’s because our hitters, they battle and make you throw strikes for the most part.”

Arkansas achieved a run-rule victory on Saturday, winning 21-3, a record highlight for the Razorbacks marking an unprecedented weekend in SEC history. No SEC team had previously lost by ten or more runs in all games of a conference series since the rule was established in 2023.

Standout performances came from first baseman Cam Kozeal and outfielder Charles Davalan. Kozeal hit two home runs in the second game, including a grand slam, contributing significantly to the team’s success. He ended the day with 5 hits, 8 RBIs, and 2 walks over the two games. His remarkable hitting has made him a threat in the lineup, evidenced by his .532 batting average in SEC play.

Davalan mirrored Kozeal’s success, hitting two home runs in the first game with an impressive 7 RBIs. His contribution alongside Kozeal highlights the depth of the Arkansas lineup, described by Kozeal as, “a very complete lineup 1 through 9.”

The Razorbacks’ pitching staff was also instrumental, as starter Gabe Gaeckle yielded only 4 runs in his 4-inning effort in game one. Aiden Jimenez secured the win in relief while Landon Beidelschies performed excellently in game two, striking out 7 batters in his start.

As the Razorbacks head into the upcoming week, they will face Arkansas State at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, followed by a challenging series against Georgia this weekend, aiming to maintain their high level of play and bolster their chances of securing the number one ranking in college baseball.