Preview: Alabama Gets Set For Doubleheader Against Alabama A&M

Alabama (9-6) returns home from Mobile following a series win over Lipscomb.The Crimson Tide topped the Bison 5-1 on Friday night before losing 7-3 on Saturday. They managed to clinch the series over Lipscomb with a 3-0 win on Sunday.

Alabama will play Alabama A&M (9-6) in a doubleheader on Tuesday afternoon in Hoover, and the Bulldogs will be seeking their first ever win over the Crimson Tide. This will only be the fourth and fifth time the two teams have met with the Tide leading the all-time series 3-0. In those three previous meetings, Alabama A&M was outscored 42-1.

The Bulldogs may prove to be a challenging opponent for the Crimson Tide despite those past records. The team was on a six game winning streak before losing to Alcorn State 6-5 on Sunday afternoon. It is the first time since 2010 that they have at least nine wins in their first 15 games.

The Bulldogs' current top four hitters were all named to the preseason All-SWAC team. Second baseman Julio Nunez currently leads the SWAC in hits (22), doubles (8), and home runs (4). Outfielders Brandon Crutcher and Andrew Utterback are not far behind each having 17 hits of their own. First baseman Austin Hulsey has added 16 hits to their solid lineup.

Alabama A&M's power at the plate should be a concern for Alabama head coach Mitch Gaspard heading into Tuesday's doubleheader. The Crimson Tide is still dead last in the SEC in team ERA (3.79). However, the solid pitching performances in their two wins over the weekend should give Gaspard and the rest of the team a vote of confidence moving forward. The team should also feel comfortable with the bat of right fielder Casey Hughston, who still leads the SEC in hits (30) and batting average (.500). Shortstop Mikey White has been equally lethal adding 20 hits and an SEC-leading four triples.

Alabama can quickly become one of the best in the SEC if they can slowly improve the pitching rotation and remain hot at the plate. Following their doubleheader with Alabama A&M, the Crimson Tide will travel to Starkville to open up conference play against Mississippi State.

The first game of the doubleheader will begin at 2:00 pm with the second game immediately following.