Gamecocks Edge Trojans in Pitchers’ Duel Behind Johnson’s Blast

TROY, Ala. (Interstat) — Caleb Johnson’s three-run homer in the fourth inning proved decisive as Jacksonville State held off Troy 5-4 on Tuesday night at Riddle–Pace Field. Johnson’s seventh home run of the season capped a five-run fourth for the Gamecocks, who overcame an early deficit. Troy’s Jimmy Janicki had tied the game with a three-run homer in the first. Jacksonville State’s bullpen dominated, with five relievers combining for six hitless innings after Jud Files opened with three scoreless frames. Hayden Smith threw five hitless innings in relief for Troy. Jacksonville State improved to 34-8, while Troy fell to 20-21.