Tigers reliever Austin Hubbard (2-1) walked in a run in the seventh and gave up a two-run single to Jon Kelton, which gave Alabama a 6-4 lead.

Auburn (17-10, 4-4 SEC) pulled within one in the ninth on an RBI double by Dan Gamache. But Tide closer Nathan Kilcrease (Glenwood Academy) struck out Wes Gilmer with two runners on to preserve the victory.

Kevin Patterson hit two home runs, the second of which gave the Tigers a 4-0 lead in the third. He has six home runs this year.

Auburn couldn't hold the lead. Ross Wilson hit a three-run home run in the third off Tigers starter Cole Nelson to make it 4-3. Nelson gave up four runs (three earned) in 6 1/3 innings, allowing seven hits and striking out six.

Alabama improved to 19-7 overall and 4-4 in the SEC.

The teams wrap up the series today at 3 p.m. ET.