How Vandy Managed To Win A 12-Inning CWS Marathon

The Vanderbilt Commodores, the reigning CWS champs, finally managed a walk-off win against the Arizona Wildcats after a thrilling 12-inning contest this Saturday.

The Commodores faced an Arizona baseball club known for its dynamic hitting — an offense that certainly challenged Kumar Rocker and Jack Leiter, the nation's best pitching duo.

Commodores' Kumar Rocker had a lukewarm performance after dominating all season, and his struggles culminated in a two-run score by the Wildcats' Ryan Holgate in the sixth inning, giving Arizona a temporary lead.

A counter two-run home run by Vanderbilt shortstop Carter Young at the bottom of the seventh inning resurrected the Commodores. The hit sailed over right-center field, which propelled the Commodores to take a 6-5 lead against the Wildcats going into the final innings.

Arizona's Donta Williams tied up the game 6-6 in the top of the ninth after his sacrifice brought in Mac Bingham from third and sent the game to extra innings.

Commodores' Jayson Gonzalez then hit the walk-off, game-winning single up the middle to bring in Isaiah Thomas to seal the deal in the 12th inning.

Vanderbilt defeated Arizona 7-6 after 12 innings and nearly five hours of quality CWS baseball.

The Commodores will face N.C. State in the winners bracket on Monday. The Wolfpack defeated Stanford 10-4 on Saturday.