Ariel Antigua darted into shallow left field, nabbed a hard-hit ball and fired to third all in one motion. He prevented South Carolina from loading the bases with no outs in a huge moment during Tennessee’s 7-5 series-clinching win over the Gamecocks.
“Ariel’s play is one of the best ones I’ve ever seen,” Tennessee baseball head coach Tony Vitello said.
Big time play by Ariel to get the lead runner for out No. 1!
https://t.co/mSB5yq8kIL (SECN+)
#GBO // #BeatSC pic.twitter.com/ezNJJAFlw7
— Tennessee Baseball (@Vol_Baseball) March 29, 2025
“He is fully capable of doing a bunch of different things,” Vitello added on Antigua. “But I think that just came from trying to find a way to win… A lot of want-to right there on display, which was impressive.”
Antigua is widely regarded as one of Tennessee’s best defensive players, if not the best. But he doesn’t start every game because he hasn’t been a great hitter during his time as a Vol.
However, starting second baseman Gavin Kilen hasn’t been in the lineup the last five games due to a hamstring injury, opening the door for extended opportunities for Antigua.
The sophomore has made the most of them. He’s had his best streak as a hitter to date, recording five hits in his last four SEC starts. And with those extended opportunities, Antigua has more chances to make jaw-dropping defensive plays like he did Saturday.
In addition to the play above, Antigua made a great throw to Andrew Fischer to help complete a 3-6-3 inning-ending double play in the eighth, saving a run.
WOW! What a turn to end the eighth and keep this game tied!
#GBO // #BeatSC pic.twitter.com/LZGR8bMklJ
— Tennessee Baseball (@Vol_Baseball) March 29, 2025
Antigua figures to remain Tennessee’s starting shortstop with Kilen sidelined. And his play as of late begs the question of whether or not Vitello and co. should keep Antigua as an everyday starter once Kilen returns.
