MONTGOMERY, Ala— Alabama has struggled in the MAX Capital City Classic. Alabama has dropped nine of the 10 MAX Capital City Classics including Tuesday’s 5-2 loss. 

“I thought Auburn outplayed us in every facet of the game,” coach Brad Bohannon said. “They had better at bats, they pitched better, and obviously I think what stood out was their defense. Jay [Estes] made some plays in center that were difference making plays.”

Auburn did most of its damage in the second inning. The No. 9 Tigers scored four of their five runs in the frame. The inning started with a line shot by Josh Anthony that hit Alabama starter Mason Duke in the leg. After being checked out by the team trainer, Duke stayed in the game. The Tigers next three hitters sprayed the ball over the field, hitting a double, single and home run respectively. 

Duke’s night came to an end after Will Holland hit the second home run of the inning. He threw just 1 2/3 innings, allowed four runs, five hits and finished with the loss.

“The last several games we’ve had a real problem with getting down big early,” Bohannon said. “We were behind in the count. I think when we gave up the four spot, it was single, single home run, and it was 1-0, 1-0 and 2-0.”

Holland finished 2-for-4 with two home runs. He hit his second home run in the bottom of the seventh off right-handed pitcher Davis Vainer. 

Alabama’s bullpen was strong once again in its midweek game. It allowed just the solo home run, while scattering seven hits. Brock Guffey came in as Alabama’s first arm from the pen, and retired all four batters he faced, finishing off Auburn’s strong second inning. 

Alabama scored its first run in the sixth inning. Chandler Taylor led off the inning with a walk. He moved up to second on a wild pitch from Auburn starter Jack Owen. Chandler Avant followed with a single to center field, scoring Taylor. 

Alabama’s only other run came in the top of the eighth. With runners on first and second, John Trousdale singled to center field after falling behind 0-2, scoring Walker McCleney. 

Avant finished 2-for-4. He was the only player with multiple hits for Alabama. 

Calvin Coker was huge in win for Auburn. He tied his season high in strike outs with five, and threw four innings. He finished with his fifth save of the year, while Owen finished with his first career win.

“Calvin’s tough,” Bohannon said. “He’s one of the better relievers, and it’s just such a different look. What I noticed tonight compared to last year, is that he’s a lot more affective against left handers.”

Alabama hosts No. 6 Kentucky for the weekend series.