Arkansas Baseball Faces Heartbreak Again at College World Series: Déjà Vu of 2018
June 19, 2025
In a heart-stopping finish reminiscent of past misfortunes, the Arkansas Razorbacks once again faltered in the College World Series, succumbing to a 6-5 defeat against LSU. This latest loss not only knocked the Razorbacks out of contention but also showcased a troubling pattern of near-misses for the storied program.
Fans in Omaha and those watching from home were treated to a tense matchup, with Arkansas holding a 5-3 lead going into the bottom of the ninth inning—a lead bolstered by a clutch 2-RBI single from Justin Thomas Jr. However, the Razorbacks’ hopes began to unravel when LSU mounted a rally, placing two runners on base after a series of pivotal plays.
Key mistakes proved costly for Arkansas. A fielder’s choice attempt by shortstop Wehiwa Aloy backfired when he opted for a less strategic out at third base, leaving fans anxious. This suspense soon turned into déjà vu as left fielder Charles Davalan misjudged a catch, allowing two LSU runners to score and tie the game at 5-5.
With two outs and the tension palpable, Jared Jones delivered the fatal blow with a single that slipped off second baseman Cam Kozeal’s glove, sending LSU to the national championship series against Coastal Carolina.
As sentiments of dismay washed over the Razorbacks’ supporters, echoes of the 2018 College World Series disaster loomed large—when a crucial catch slipped through their fingers. The game served as a stark reminder of the so-called “curse” afflicting Arkansas in the World Series, raising questions about their fate in future postseason appearances. The championship series, set to begin Saturday, will showcase LSU and Coastal Carolina, while the Razorbacks are left to ponder what might have been.
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