OMAHA, NE — The 2025 Men’s College World Series continues Tuesday with high-stakes action as one team secures a semifinal berth and another sees its championship dreams end. After Arizona’s elimination from Bracket 1, all eyes turn to two crucial matchups that will reshape the tournament landscape.
Game 1: Arkansas vs. Murray State (2 p.m. ET) – Do or Die for the Razorbacks
Arkansas enters this elimination game reeling from a 4-1 loss to LSU, while Murray State looks to rebound after falling 6-4 to UCLA. The Razorbacks now face a win-or-go-home scenario, and their season hinges on ace Gage Wood, who boasts the sharpest stuff on Arkansas’ staff.
Prediction: Arkansas 7, Murray State 1
Though Murray State has been a scrappy underdog this postseason, Arkansas’ firepower should prove too much. The Razorbacks’ lineup, led by Peyton Stovall and Wehiwa Aloy, is due for a breakout, and Wood’s dominance on the mound could stifle the Racers’ offense. If Arkansas plays with the urgency of a team fighting for survival, expect a convincing win.
Game 2: LSU vs. UCLA (7 p.m. ET) – Tigers Eye Semifinal Spot
The nightcap features a heavyweight clash between LSU and UCLA, with the winner advancing to the semifinals. The Tigers are riding high after their win over Arkansas, while UCLA looks to build momentum after edging Murray State.
Prediction: LSU 6, UCLA 2
LSU’s Anthony Eyanson, the Tigers’ co-ace, is perfectly positioned to dominate in pitcher-friendly Charles Schwab Field. With a deep bullpen and a lineup capable of manufacturing runs, LSU has the edge. UCLA’s pitching will keep it close early, but the Tigers’ balanced attack and fresh arms should secure their spot in the next round.
What’s at Stake
- Arkansas: A loss sends the Razorbacks home; a win keeps their title hopes alive.
- Murray State: The Racers aim to extend their Cinderella run and eliminate a national contender.
- LSU: The Tigers can lock up a semifinal berth with a victory.
- UCLA: The Bruins hope to avenge their Super Regional loss to LSU and control their destiny.
Key Factors to Watch
- Arkansas’ mentality: Can the Razorbacks shake off their LSU loss and play loose under pressure?
- Murray State’s resilience: The Racers thrive as underdogs—will they deliver another upset?
- LSU’s pitching depth: Eyanson’s start sets the tone, but the bullpen must hold firm.
- UCLA’s small ball: The Bruins manufacture runs better than most—can they crack LSU’s staff?
Final Thoughts
Day 4 promises drama, as Arkansas battles to avoid an early exit and LSU looks to cement itself as the team to beat. For the Razorbacks, it’s simple: win or watch the rest of the tournament from home.
