The start of Southeastern Conference play is just around the corner.

And Auburn’s offense certainly looks ready.

The Tigers picked up their seventh consecutive win Tuesday against Appalachian State, a 17-0 victory. It’s the second time in the last three games that AU (11-4) has scored double-figure runs.

And while Appalachian State (7-7) isn’t exactly an SEC-level team, AU head coach Tom Slater says the Mountaineers are better than Tuesday’s score.

“Appalachian State’s a quality ballclub,” Slater said. “Appy’s already beaten N.C. State and Wake Forest, two top-25 clubs, earlier this season.
“Our guys were ready to play.”

The top of the order did most of the damage for AU: Leadoff man Trent Mummey was 2-for-2, walked twice and scored four runs, while No. 2 hitter Mike Bianucci had five RBI and hit his third home run of the season. Freshman Hunter Morris, the No. 3 hitter, and sophomore Joseph

Sanders, who hit cleanup, each scored two runs and had two RBI.

Tuesday’s blowout was a useful tuneup for the start of Auburn’s SEC schedule, which begins with a three-game series at Florida this weekend.

Auburn led 8-0 after two innings and added nine runs in the final three innings. The consistent offensive output — at least one Tiger reached base in every inning — was backed up by a strong pitching performance.

AU starter Luke Greinke (2-1) struck out seven Mountaineers in six scoreless innings.

The two-game midweek series concludes today at 6 p.m. Freshman left-hander Cory Luckie (2-1, 1.35), AU’s Sunday starter, will start for the Tigers, but won’t throw more than two innings.

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