The LSU Tigers (49-15) beat the Arkansas Razorbacks (48-14) 4-1 in their College World Series opener Saturday night.
LSU starting pitcher Kade Anderson was fantastic like he’s been for most of the season.
The former St. Paul’s star went seven innings, giving up just three hits, one earned run, two walks and struck out seven Razorbacks.
The Tigers put up three runs in the second inning to take the 3-0 lead.
LSU was able to load the bases thanks to a bunt single by second baseman Daniel Dickinson.
Outfielder Chris Stanfield started the scoring when he dumped a single to left field to drive in catcher Luis Hernandez.
LSU took the 2-0 lead after third baseman Michael Braswell was hit by a pitch.
The Tigers tacked on another run when outfielder Josh Pearson beat out what could’ve been an inning-ending double play.
The Tigers knocked out Arkansas starting pitcher Zach Root after 1.2 innings of work.
The Razorbacks finally got on the board in the bottom of the sixth inning on a solo home run by first baseman Reese Robinett to make it 3-1.
Gabe Gaeckle was amazing for Arkansas in relief, going six innings, allowing three hits, one earned run and struck out 10 Tigers.
The Tigers would get that one run after Gaeckle left the game in the top of the 8th inning.
Outfielder Derek Curiel dumped a two-out single to left field to drive in shortstop Steven Milam to give LSU the 4-1 lead.
Pitchers Chase Shores and Casan Evans closed out the game for the Tigers.
LSU will face UCLA Monday at 6 p.m. in the winners bracket.
READ MORE:Kade Anderson helps lead LSU to win over Arkansas in College World Series opener
