Texas A&M's weekend series against Auburn took a tough turn, and now the Aggies are facing an even bigger challenge heading into Sunday's Game 3 finale. After dropping both games of Saturday's doubleheader to No. 8 Auburn, No. 7 Texas A&M (34-10, 14-6 SEC) is looking to avoid a sweep—but they'll have to do it without one of their brightest young stars.

Freshman third baseman Nico Partida has been officially ruled out for Sunday's matchup after suffering a lower-body injury during the second game of Saturday's doubleheader. The injury occurred in a rather unusual way: Partida attempted the splits while making a defensive play, immediately hobbled to the dugout, and never returned to the game. Gavin Grahovac slid over to third base in his absence, while Blake Binderup took over first base duties.

Partida has been a key contributor this season, batting .317 with 52 hits and 12 home runs through 44 games. His bat has been one of the most reliable in the lineup, and his defense has steadily improved throughout the year. Losing him now, with the SEC Tournament on the horizon, is far from ideal—but it does give Texas A&M a chance to test their depth.

Head coach Mike Earley is expected to provide an update after Sunday's game, but with a Tuesday matchup against Prairie View on deck, don't expect the Aggies to rush Partida back. The series finale against Auburn is set for Sunday, May 3, at 1:00 p.m. CT, and Texas A&M will be hoping to salvage a win before heading on the road to face Ole Miss next weekend.