No. 1 Arkansas survives rally from Alabama, improves to 30-3

The Razorbacks record moves to 30-3 overall with a 12-1 mark in SEC play following Friday night's series-opening win against the No. 25 Crimson Tide. 

It looked like it would be smooth sailing for the Diamond Hogs through much of Friday's Top 25 contest, but three Alabama runs in the eighth inning made it a 5-3 game heading into the ninth. However, Arkansas closer Gabe Gaeckle navigated the final 1 2/3 innings on the mound to preserve a big win.

After a midweek sweep of San Jose State, Arkansas' 30th win was imminent this weekend. And by picking it up in Game 1, the Razorbacks remain atop of the SEC. A sweep or even a series win would keep Arkansas atop the Top 25 rankings, but it doesn't need a number beside its name to display its dominance. 

Arkansas has proven time and time again this year that it can win in any setting and in any type of game. While it has been more known for its excellent pitching staff this season, its offense has the potential to explode at any moment, as it did with back-to-back home runs in the first inning on Friday night. 

Speaking of pitching, Arkansas ace Hagen Smith threw six innings of scoreless baseball on Friday night, allowing just two hits and striking out six batters en route to another victory for the nation's best pitcher. 

Arkansas is back in action on Saturday as the Razorbacks look to take the series from Alabama and continue their run of dominance in the SEC. First pitch for Saturday's matchup is set for 6 p.m. ET.