Rain Threatens Series Finale Between LSU, Tennessee

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (Interstat) — A pivotal Southeastern Conference series concludes Sunday at Lindsey Nelson Stadium, where the forecast of rain adds uncertainty to the afternoon matchup between LSU and Tennessee.

The Tigers (21-11, 3-5 SEC) and Volunteers (20-11, 4-4 SEC) have split the first two games of the set. Tennessee evened the series with a 4-1 win Saturday after LSU took Friday’s opener 7-5.

Weather could be the dominant factor, with a game-time temperature of 78 degrees and rain expected. First pitch is scheduled for the evening.

LSU will look to sophomore right-hander Casan Evans to secure the series win. Evans (3-2, 4.15 ERA) has been dominant at times, including a 15-strikeout, 7 2/3-inning shutout performance against Oklahoma on March 19. However, he was tagged for six earned runs in just three innings at Vanderbilt on March 13. In his last start, he allowed three earned runs over 5 2/3 innings in Friday’s victory over these Volunteers.

Tennessee counters with junior left-hander Landon Mack (2-3, 3.68 ERA). Mack was brilliant in a tough-luck loss Friday, holding LSU to one earned run on three hits while striking out 10 over seven innings. Control has been an issue at times, as he has walked 15 batters in his last 21 1/3 innings.

Both teams are seeking consistency in conference play. LSU has won four of its last six overall, while Tennessee has dropped five of its last seven SEC contests.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, LSU is projected for a 7-5 victory.

Following Sunday’s finale, LSU hosts Bethune-Cookman on Tuesday before a road series at Mississippi. Tennessee welcomes Northern Kentucky on Tuesday before traveling to Mississippi State for its next SEC series.