Chris Crenshaw had to make a change on the mound.

Southern’s fourth-year coach took out starting right-hand pitcher Kenneth Jackson, a sophomore, after he loaded the bases in the fourth inning with only one out.

Junior righty Kiki Ford took his place and on his first pitch in the Southwestern Athletic Conference Tournament, Grambling’s Trey Bridges delivered a grand slam.

This not only gave the Tigers a seven-run lead, but it also demoralized No. 7-seeded Southern, which wasn’t able to make a meaningful attempt at a comeback with its season on the line.

The Jaguars were run-ruled, losing 16-2 to No. 5-seeded Grambling on Friday at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama.

For the fourth straight season, Southern (24-27) is eliminated without reaching the SWAC Championship game.

The Jaguars opened the contest with the first run in the first inning. Jaylon Lucky’s single went to the third baseman, who committed an error, failing to corral the ball and make a routine out.

The early mishap by Grambling (25-27) was not a sign of future defensive mistakes. The Jaguars were the team unable to find consistency on defense although their starting pitcher opened the game well as he struck out two and allowed zero hits in the first inning.

In the second inning, Jackson gave up four earned runs, including one after a wild pitch.

Southern gave up another four-run frame after Jackson gave up a single and allowed two players on base after hitting them with his pitch, with the last one resulting in his substitution after 3 ⅓ innings pitched.

On the other side, Grambling State starting lefty pitcher Randy Reyes, a graduate student, was dominant. He pitched all seven innings, struck out four and allowed four hits and one earned run.

Crenshaw had to go deep into his bullpen as his team played four relief pitchers.

Southern’s bats were largely quiet after a three-hit first inning. The team finished the outing with four total hits and six left on base.