Introduction
The 2024 College World Series has reached its climactic finale, with only two teams left standing: Tennessee and Texas A&M. Over the coming days, one of these schools will achieve the ultimate accolade in college baseball by being crowned the national champion.
Path to the Finals
Tennessee managed to stave off a wild comeback attempt by Texas A&M on Sunday afternoon, tying the series 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all game on Monday. The Aggies had initially surged ahead thanks to a Jace LaViolette home run, but the Volunteers responded with four runs, eventually sealing a 4-1 victory. Despite a late rally from Texas A&M in the ninth inning, Tennessee's defense held firm.
The College World Series kicked off last week with eight teams. Virginia, NC State, North Carolina, Kentucky, Florida State, and Florida have since been eliminated, leaving Tennessee and Texas A&M to vie for the title. This adds extra excitement, as neither team has ever won a national championship. Tennessee last made it to the Finals in 1951, whereas this is Texas A&M's first Finals appearance.
Star Players in the Spotlight
Christian Moore, projected as a first-round pick in next month’s MLB Draft, has been a standout for Tennessee all year. Moore made headlines with his performance in the Vols' CWS-opening win against Florida State, where he hit for the second cycle in College World Series history. His offensive output has been critical for Tennessee's success.
Texas A&M reached the Finals despite missing their top hitter, Braden Montgomery. Montgomery, who is a potential top-10 draft pick, has been sidelined due to a leg injury sustained earlier in the Tournament. Nonetheless, his absence has not derailed the Aggies' spirited campaign.
Tournament Highlights
Fans have been treated to thrilling finishes and exceptional displays throughout the series. On Friday, June 14, North Carolina edged Virginia 3-2, while Tennessee narrowly defeated Florida State 12-11. The next day saw Kentucky secure a victory over NC State with a 5-4 score after ten gripping innings, and Texas A&M edging out Florida 3-2.
The Epic Battles
The drama continued with Florida State eliminating Virginia 7-3 on Sunday, June 16, followed by Tennessee's commanding 6-1 victory over North Carolina. By Wednesday, June 19, the tension peaked as Florida State ousted North Carolina 9-5, and Tennessee sent Florida State packing with a 7-2 win.
Super Regionals Drama
The Super Regionals set the stage for the World Series Finals with several riveting matches. Florida State’s overpowering 24-4 win over UConn and Tennessee's gritty 11-6 victory against Evansville showcased the high stakes. North Carolina's 8-6 win over West Virginia and Virginia's 7-4 triumph over Kansas State were also notable. Texas A&M's 15-9 victory against Oregon illustrated their strength and determination.
Other standout games included Georgia’s dominant 11-2 win over NC State and North Carolina's nail-biting 2-1 win against West Virginia. Florida's 13-inning edge-out over Clemson with an 11-10 score solidified their place in the finals, even though they were subsequently eliminated.
Finals Schedule
As the stage is set for the final showdown, the series' schedule is as follows:
- Saturday, June 22 - Finals, Game 1: Texas A&M 9, Tennessee 5
- Sunday, June 23 - Finals, Game 2: Tennessee 4, Texas A&M 1
- Monday, June 24 - Finals, Game 3: Texas A&M vs. Tennessee, 7 p.m. (ESPN)
Each game is available for streaming on fubo (try for free).
The Grand Finale
The final game promises to be an unforgettable conclusion to the 2024 College World Series. With neither Tennessee nor Texas A&M having won a national championship before, the stakes could not be higher. Every aspect of the game—pitching, batting, and maintaining composure under pressure—will be crucial. Both teams have exhibited incredible resilience and determination to reach this point.
The anticipation is palpable as fans eagerly await the ultimate showdown, where either Tennessee or Texas A&M will emerge as the new champion of college baseball.
Stay tuned for an exhilarating finale to a remarkable series.