Kentucky baseball got a hard-fought win over Texas A&M, but the real story wasn’t just the final score (10-5)—it was the explosive shouting match between Kentucky head coach Nick Mingione and Texas A&M’s Michael Earley.
With the SEC’s travel curfew rule looming, Kentucky played the clock as much as they played the Aggies. And Earley wasn’t having it.
Explaining the getaway rule
For those unfamiliar, SEC getaway day rules dictate that no new inning can begin after 4:30 p.m. local time on the final game of a series on Sunday to ensure teams can travel without major delays.
This is because most student athletes have classes on Monday and preventing them from leaving on time could cause major issues the following day.
Mingione knew the rule. Earley knew the rule. The difference? Mingione used it to his advantage this time.
⏳ The 8th inning controversy
The game was winding down, but not fast enough for Kentucky’s liking. Up 10-5 in the 8th inning, if Kentucky could get to 4:30 before ending their at bat, the game would be called. Mingione did everything he could to slow things down. Mound visits, defensive meetings with the players, just the small things that are considered gamesmanship.
All of it within the rules, but none of it sitting well with A&M.
The Aggies' hitting coach turned manager erupted, yelling across the field at Mingione. The two went back and forth in a screaming match, with Earley eventually storming out of the dugout, continuing to voice his frustration.
It was heated. It was intense. And it was completely legal.
By dragging out the the 8th inning, Kentucky burned just enough clock to prevent Texas A&M from getting one final shot at a comeback in the 9th. And when the clock struck 4:30? Game over. Wildcats win.
😡 Texas A&M Wasn’t Happy, But Kentucky Walked Away Victorious
Was it controversial? Sure.
Was it legal? Absolutely.
Did it work? You bet.
Mingione’s chess move paid off, even if it left the Aggies fuming.
One thing’s for sure: the next time these two teams meet, it’s going to be personal. Remember it was Kentucky that defeated Texas A&M last year at the College World Series.