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LJS: Huskers roll past Florida Gulf Coast
Colonel Sanders may have taken one to the face on the KFC left-field "fowl" pole, but Tanner Lubach was glad to trot home after his three-run home run to help Nebraska pluck Florida Gulf Coast 8-2 Saturday before 6,223 fans at Haymarket Park.
Nebraska continued to frolic at home. Four wins, 45 hits, 32 runs and impressive pitching have boosted the Huskers' record to 11-6. The team's batting average has jumped from .256 Monday to .275 Saturday afternoon.
Lubach has been part of the surge. The senior from Lincoln Southwest started the season 0-for-18, but has 14 hits in his last 38 at-bats (.368).
"He may have been trying too hard, pressing. That happens," NU coach Darin Erstad said of Lubach's slow start. "Concerned? No. I was never worried. He is grinding it out. He didn't panic."
"Any time the ball lands in the park, it's a suspicious home run in my view," Lubach said. "But after the umpires talked, I went home. It's always better to trot home than run."
Lubach's homer and a 12-hit Husker attack were more than enough to back up senior left-hander Kyle Kubat (3-0), who gave up seven hits, walked one and struck out one in seven innings.
Nebraska took a 3-0 lead in the first inning on Lubach's second homer of the season. Blake Headley singled and scored on a wild pitch in the third, and NU plated three more runs on three hits and an error in the fifth.
"By the end of this homestand (12 more games, including Sunday at noon against the Eagles) we'll know our identity," said Kubat, a senior from Creighton Prep. "It's nice to see the offense put up twos and threes and give us the early leads." The Huskers have scored in the first inning in five consecutive games.
"I was just throwing strikes, and in the sixth inning, they strung together three hits and loaded the bases, but we limited the damage and didn't change a thing because we had a 7-0 lead," Kubat said.
He had some outstanding help in the field, too.
NU freshman left-fielder Luis Alvarado short-hopped a sinking liner and threw a bullet to Lubach at the plate to help thwart an Eagle scoring threat in the fourth.
"Getting the early leads, adding some in the middle innings, shows we're ready to play," Erstad said. "The pitchers set the tone in the first inning. Kyle did a nice job and put Florida Gulf Coast behind in the count a lot. He gave up three straight fastball hits and gave up two runs, but it was a good two runs, and he was consistent."
Briefly
* Infielder Jake Placzek, who missed much of the early season with a broken finger (slammed in a car door) and recently a torn fingernail (taking grounders this week), may be ready to start, Erstad said.
"We have a plan to wrap him in bubblewrap, tape all his fingers, so there are no car doors, grounders, and we hope he can play (Sunday)," Erstad said.
* Shortstop Steven Reveles, who singled in the second inning, was replaced by Wes Edrington after Reveles had soreness in a hamstring. Edrington picked up his first hit of the season with a single in the sixth.
* Sunshine, 70-degree temperatures and the crowds have brought 19,473 fans to the ball park in four games this week. The first two games of the weekend series have drawn 12,285. NU's three-game nonconference series attendance record is 14,885, set when the Huskers played Alabama in 2006.
LJS: Huskers roll past Florida Gulf Coast
Colonel Sanders may have taken one to the face on the KFC left-field "fowl" pole, but Tanner Lubach was glad to trot home after his three-run home run to help Nebraska pluck Florida Gulf Coast 8-2 Saturday before 6,223 fans at Haymarket Park.
Nebraska continued to frolic at home. Four wins, 45 hits, 32 runs and impressive pitching have boosted the Huskers' record to 11-6. The team's batting average has jumped from .256 Monday to .275 Saturday afternoon.
Lubach has been part of the surge. The senior from Lincoln Southwest started the season 0-for-18, but has 14 hits in his last 38 at-bats (.368).
"He may have been trying too hard, pressing. That happens," NU coach Darin Erstad said of Lubach's slow start. "Concerned? No. I was never worried. He is grinding it out. He didn't panic."
"Any time the ball lands in the park, it's a suspicious home run in my view," Lubach said. "But after the umpires talked, I went home. It's always better to trot home than run."
Lubach's homer and a 12-hit Husker attack were more than enough to back up senior left-hander Kyle Kubat (3-0), who gave up seven hits, walked one and struck out one in seven innings.
Nebraska took a 3-0 lead in the first inning on Lubach's second homer of the season. Blake Headley singled and scored on a wild pitch in the third, and NU plated three more runs on three hits and an error in the fifth.
"By the end of this homestand (12 more games, including Sunday at noon against the Eagles) we'll know our identity," said Kubat, a senior from Creighton Prep. "It's nice to see the offense put up twos and threes and give us the early leads." The Huskers have scored in the first inning in five consecutive games.
"I was just throwing strikes, and in the sixth inning, they strung together three hits and loaded the bases, but we limited the damage and didn't change a thing because we had a 7-0 lead," Kubat said.
He had some outstanding help in the field, too.
NU freshman left-fielder Luis Alvarado short-hopped a sinking liner and threw a bullet to Lubach at the plate to help thwart an Eagle scoring threat in the fourth.
"Getting the early leads, adding some in the middle innings, shows we're ready to play," Erstad said. "The pitchers set the tone in the first inning. Kyle did a nice job and put Florida Gulf Coast behind in the count a lot. He gave up three straight fastball hits and gave up two runs, but it was a good two runs, and he was consistent."
Briefly
* Infielder Jake Placzek, who missed much of the early season with a broken finger (slammed in a car door) and recently a torn fingernail (taking grounders this week), may be ready to start, Erstad said.
"We have a plan to wrap him in bubblewrap, tape all his fingers, so there are no car doors, grounders, and we hope he can play (Sunday)," Erstad said.
* Shortstop Steven Reveles, who singled in the second inning, was replaced by Wes Edrington after Reveles had soreness in a hamstring. Edrington picked up his first hit of the season with a single in the sixth.
* Sunshine, 70-degree temperatures and the crowds have brought 19,473 fans to the ball park in four games this week. The first two games of the weekend series have drawn 12,285. NU's three-game nonconference series attendance record is 14,885, set when the Huskers played Alabama in 2006.
LJS: Huskers roll past Florida Gulf Coast
NU: Huskers Clinch Series Against FGCU with 8-2 Win
Lincoln - With over 6,000 fans in the seats at Hawks Field for the second straight day, the Nebraska baseball team (11-6, 0-0 Big Ten) clinched a series win over the Florida Gulf Coast University Eagles (8-11-1, 0-0 Atlantic Sun) with an 8-2 victory on Saturday afternoon. The Huskers will go for the sweep tomorrow at 12:05 p.m.
With a series attendance of 12,285 through two games, the mark already ranks fourth among non-conference series crowds at Hawks Field. NU's series with Alabama in 2006 ranks first with a three-day attendance of 14,885. The Huskers need 2,601 fans tomorrow to break the mark.
Senior Kyle Kubat went 7.0 innings in the win and improved to 3-0 on the year. It was Kubat's third start this season of at least 7.0 innings this season, and the lefty was efficient in his work as he needed only 10 pitches in an inning four times during the game to retire the Eagles.
Offensively, sophomore Ben Miller led the way with a 3-for-4 performance, while Tanner Lubach was 2-for-4 with a home run, three RBIs and two runs scored. Ryan Boldt also notched a multi-hit game, going 2-for-3, after recording three hits in the series opener.
For the fifth straight game the Huskers scored in the first inning, taking a 3-0 lead on Lubach's three-run home run, his second of the season. Jake Schleppenbach started the frame with an infield single and after a sacrifice bunt by Luis Alvarado, Boldt worked a four-pitch walk. Lubach then put the Huskers on the board when he launched a 2-2 offering from FGCU starter Devin Smeltzer off the left-field foul pole.
With Kubat in control on the mound, NU's offense pushed across another run in the third to take a 4-0 lead. Boldt led off the inning with a single, but Smeltzer cleared the bases with a 6-4-3 double play. Blake Headley and Miller started a two-out rally with a pair of singles, and then Headley scored when Smeltzer uncorked a wild pitch with Scott Schreiber at the plate. It proved even more costly three pitches later when Schreiber popped out to end the inning.
The Huskers plated three more runs in the fifth on three hits, increasing NU's lead to 7-0 for Kubat. Miller notched his third hit of the game with an RBI single and Schreiber also recorded an RBI with a sacrifice fly.
After being shutout for the first five innings, the Eagles got on the board in the top of the sixth. FGCU loaded the bases with no out on three straight singles and were poised for a big innings, but Kubat was able to limit the damage to just two runs. NU's offense got one of the runs back in the bottom of the frame when Boldt delivered a two-out RBI single that scored Wes Edrington from second base, who led off the inning with a single.
Kubat tossed a 1-2-3 seventh inning, while Jeff Chesnut pitched a perfect eighth inning and freshman Nate Fisher finished off the game with a shutout ninth inning of relief.
A reminder that tomorrow's finale has been rescheduled to 12:05 p.m., it was originally set to start at 1:05 p.m.
NU: Huskers Clinch Series Against FGCU with 8-2 W
Lincoln - With over 6,000 fans in the seats at Hawks Field for the second straight day, the Nebraska baseball team (11-6, 0-0 Big Ten) clinched a series win over the Florida Gulf Coast University Eagles (8-11-1, 0-0 Atlantic Sun) with an 8-2 victory on Saturday afternoon. The Huskers will go for the sweep tomorrow at 12:05 p.m.
With a series attendance of 12,285 through two games, the mark already ranks fourth among non-conference series crowds at Hawks Field. NU's series with Alabama in 2006 ranks first with a three-day attendance of 14,885. The Huskers need 2,601 fans tomorrow to break the mark.
Senior Kyle Kubat went 7.0 innings in the win and improved to 3-0 on the year. It was Kubat's third start this season of at least 7.0 innings this season, and the lefty was efficient in his work as he needed only 10 pitches in an inning four times during the game to retire the Eagles.
Offensively, sophomore Ben Miller led the way with a 3-for-4 performance, while Tanner Lubach was 2-for-4 with a home run, three RBIs and two runs scored. Ryan Boldt also notched a multi-hit game, going 2-for-3, after recording three hits in the series opener.
For the fifth straight game the Huskers scored in the first inning, taking a 3-0 lead on Lubach's three-run home run, his second of the season. Jake Schleppenbach started the frame with an infield single and after a sacrifice bunt by Luis Alvarado, Boldt worked a four-pitch walk. Lubach then put the Huskers on the board when he launched a 2-2 offering from FGCU starter Devin Smeltzer off the left-field foul pole.
With Kubat in control on the mound, NU's offense pushed across another run in the third to take a 4-0 lead. Boldt led off the inning with a single, but Smeltzer cleared the bases with a 6-4-3 double play. Blake Headley and Miller started a two-out rally with a pair of singles, and then Headley scored when Smeltzer uncorked a wild pitch with Scott Schreiber at the plate. It proved even more costly three pitches later when Schreiber popped out to end the inning.
The Huskers plated three more runs in the fifth on three hits, increasing NU's lead to 7-0 for Kubat. Miller notched his third hit of the game with an RBI single and Schreiber also recorded an RBI with a sacrifice fly.
After being shutout for the first five innings, the Eagles got on the board in the top of the sixth. FGCU loaded the bases with no out on three straight singles and were poised for a big innings, but Kubat was able to limit the damage to just two runs. NU's offense got one of the runs back in the bottom of the frame when Boldt delivered a two-out RBI single that scored Wes Edrington from second base, who led off the inning with a single.
Kubat tossed a 1-2-3 seventh inning, while Jeff Chesnut pitched a perfect eighth inning and freshman Nate Fisher finished off the game with a shutout ninth inning of relief.
A reminder that tomorrow's finale has been rescheduled to 12:05 p.m., it was originally set to start at 1:05 p.m.
NU: Huskers Clinch Series Against FGCU with 8-2 W
Nebraska Jumps Ahead Early, Holds Off @FGCU_Baseball, 8-2
LINCOLN, Neb. - The FGCU baseball team (8-11-1) was unable to rally against Nebraska (11-6) who took an early lead and ultimately held off the Eagles to claim an 8-2 victory. FGCU has now dropped each of the first two games of the series and the finale will take place tomorrow at 1:05 p.m. ET.
The Eagles would collect nine hits with five players managing multiple. Jake Noll (Punta Gorda, Fla./Charlotte HS) would see hits career-best 14-game hitting streak come to and end while freshman lefty Devin Smeltzer (Voorhees, N.J./Bishop Eustace Prep) took his second loss of the season on the mound. Smeltzer would give up 10 hits over 4.1 innings, allowing six earned runs and striking out four.
"We never got going today," head coach Dave Tollett said. "We fell behind early and just couldn't recover all the way. Tomorrow is another chance to play and another chance to get a win and get rolling."
Smeltzer would give up a single to lead off the bottom of the first and that runner would be sacrificed to second for the first out of the inning. A walk and a homerun in succession would put Nebraska ahead 2-0 early. Smeltzer would settle in and strikeout two batters to escape the first without further damage.
Boldt led off the bottom of the third with an infield single but Smeltzer managed to produce a double play with a 3-1 pitch to the next batter. Back-to-back singles, an error and a wild pitch would bring in another run however, pushing Nebraska ahead 4-0.
The Huskers would tack two more runs on the board in the fifth before the Eagles found their way onto the scoreboard. Tyler Selesky (Estero, Fla./Estero HS) led off the top of the sixth with a single to right. Nick Rivera (Cape Coral, Fla./Bishop Verot HS) and Colton Bottomley (Parkland, Fla./Marjory Stoneman Douglas HS) followed with back-to-back singles to load the bases for Adam Eggnatz (Tampa, Fla./Middle Georgia College) who reached on fielder's choice, driving in the first FGCU run. Matt Reardon (Palm City, Fla./Martin County) followed by also reaching on a fielder's choice with resulted in the second out of the inning but also drove in Rivera to make it a 7-2 Nebraska lead.
The Huskers would add one more run in the sixth to complete the scoring. FGCU was unable to mount any further comeback and would fall to Nebraska for the second time in as many days.
NEXT UP
FGCU will return home to face defending MEAC Champs Bethune-Cookman (3-15, 3-3 MEAC) Mar. 20-22. The Wildcats went 27-32 last season with a 14-10 record in the MEAC. B-CU currently holds the lead in the all-time series with FGCU, 8-7, but dropped two of three to the Green and Blue last season at home.
Following a midweek tilt with USF (10-6-1), Mar. 24 the Eagles will head to Coral Gables to face Miami for a third time (Mar. 25) before kicking off Atlantic Sun play at North Florida (10-8) Mar. 27-29. FGCU took two of three from the Ospreys during the regular season in 2014 then eliminated them from the A-Sun Tournament in the first round. The Ospreys posted an overall record of 22-31 and played their way into the A-Sun Tournament with an 11-16 league record. FGCU holds the edge in the all-time series, 17-7.
DAVE TOLLETT
In 12 seasons of work, FGCU head coach Dave Tollett has compiled a 442-249-3 record as the only head coach in the program's history. He is a four-time Atlantic Sun Coach of the Year and has guided the Green and Blue to four A-Sun Regular Season Championships. His team has been ranked nationally on several occasions by multiple media outlets and has coached 35 All-Conference selections, 22 draft picks, 14 current minor leaguers, four A-Sun Pitchers of the Year, three All-Americans, one National Freshman Player of the Year, one National Player of the Year and one MLB All-Star.
#WINGSUP
Fans are encouraged to download the brand-new Wings Up mobile app in conjunction with SuperFanU. The fully-customized loyalty-rewards platform allows fans to check in at each of FGCU's sporting events to earn points throughout the school year toward exclusive prizes that can't be offered anywhere else.
FOLLOW ALONG
For constant, news, photos, videos and updates you can follow the baseball team on Twitter @FGCU_Baseball, Instagram @FGCU_Baseball or on Facebook: Facebook.com/FGCUBaseball. You can also find FGCU athletics on YouTube by visiting YouTube.com/FGCUEagles.
#FEEDFGCU
FGCU Athletics sponsors events throughout the year to benefit the FGCU Campus Food Pantry (www.fgcu.edu/foodpantry) and the Harry Chapin Food Bank (www.harrychapinfoodbank.org), FGCU Athletics' charities of choice. For more information, including how to make a contribution, please visitwww.fgcu.edu/foodpantry and utilize the hashtag #FeedFGCU to help raise awareness.
Nebraska Jumps Ahead Early, Holds Off @FGCU
LINCOLN, Neb. - The FGCU baseball team (8-11-1) was unable to rally against Nebraska (11-6) who took an early lead and ultimately held off the Eagles to claim an 8-2 victory. FGCU has now dropped each of the first two games of the series and the finale will take place tomorrow at 1:05 p.m. ET.
The Eagles would collect nine hits with five players managing multiple. Jake Noll (Punta Gorda, Fla./Charlotte HS) would see hits career-best 14-game hitting streak come to and end while freshman lefty Devin Smeltzer (Voorhees, N.J./Bishop Eustace Prep) took his second loss of the season on the mound. Smeltzer would give up 10 hits over 4.1 innings, allowing six earned runs and striking out four.
"We never got going today," head coach Dave Tollett said. "We fell behind early and just couldn't recover all the way. Tomorrow is another chance to play and another chance to get a win and get rolling."
Smeltzer would give up a single to lead off the bottom of the first and that runner would be sacrificed to second for the first out of the inning. A walk and a homerun in succession would put Nebraska ahead 2-0 early. Smeltzer would settle in and strikeout two batters to escape the first without further damage.
Boldt led off the bottom of the third with an infield single but Smeltzer managed to produce a double play with a 3-1 pitch to the next batter. Back-to-back singles, an error and a wild pitch would bring in another run however, pushing Nebraska ahead 4-0.
The Huskers would tack two more runs on the board in the fifth before the Eagles found their way onto the scoreboard. Tyler Selesky (Estero, Fla./Estero HS) led off the top of the sixth with a single to right. Nick Rivera (Cape Coral, Fla./Bishop Verot HS) and Colton Bottomley (Parkland, Fla./Marjory Stoneman Douglas HS) followed with back-to-back singles to load the bases for Adam Eggnatz (Tampa, Fla./Middle Georgia College) who reached on fielder's choice, driving in the first FGCU run. Matt Reardon (Palm City, Fla./Martin County) followed by also reaching on a fielder's choice with resulted in the second out of the inning but also drove in Rivera to make it a 7-2 Nebraska lead.
The Huskers would add one more run in the sixth to complete the scoring. FGCU was unable to mount any further comeback and would fall to Nebraska for the second time in as many days.
NEXT UP
FGCU will return home to face defending MEAC Champs Bethune-Cookman (3-15, 3-3 MEAC) Mar. 20-22. The Wildcats went 27-32 last season with a 14-10 record in the MEAC. B-CU currently holds the lead in the all-time series with FGCU, 8-7, but dropped two of three to the Green and Blue last season at home.
Following a midweek tilt with USF (10-6-1), Mar. 24 the Eagles will head to Coral Gables to face Miami for a third time (Mar. 25) before kicking off Atlantic Sun play at North Florida (10-8) Mar. 27-29. FGCU took two of three from the Ospreys during the regular season in 2014 then eliminated them from the A-Sun Tournament in the first round. The Ospreys posted an overall record of 22-31 and played their way into the A-Sun Tournament with an 11-16 league record. FGCU holds the edge in the all-time series, 17-7.
DAVE TOLLETT
In 12 seasons of work, FGCU head coach Dave Tollett has compiled a 442-249-3 record as the only head coach in the program's history. He is a four-time Atlantic Sun Coach of the Year and has guided the Green and Blue to four A-Sun Regular Season Championships. His team has been ranked nationally on several occasions by multiple media outlets and has coached 35 All-Conference selections, 22 draft picks, 14 current minor leaguers, four A-Sun Pitchers of the Year, three All-Americans, one National Freshman Player of the Year, one National Player of the Year and one MLB All-Star.
#WINGSUP
Fans are encouraged to download the brand-new Wings Up mobile app in conjunction with SuperFanU. The fully-customized loyalty-rewards platform allows fans to check in at each of FGCU's sporting events to earn points throughout the school year toward exclusive prizes that can't be offered anywhere else.
FOLLOW ALONG
For constant, news, photos, videos and updates you can follow the baseball team on Twitter @FGCU_Baseball, Instagram @FGCU_Baseball or on Facebook: Facebook.com/FGCUBaseball. You can also find FGCU athletics on YouTube by visiting YouTube.com/FGCUEagles.
#FEEDFGCU
FGCU Athletics sponsors events throughout the year to benefit the FGCU Campus Food Pantry (www.fgcu.edu/foodpantry) and the Harry Chapin Food Bank (www.harrychapinfoodbank.org), FGCU Athletics' charities of choice. For more information, including how to make a contribution, please visitwww.fgcu.edu/foodpantry and utilize the hashtag #FeedFGCU to help raise awareness.
Nebraska Jumps Ahead Early, Holds Off @FGCU
D1 - Ten Thoughts: Saturday, March 14
1. Hokies pull off upset of the weekend
Third-ranked Virginia carried a 12-2 record into this weekend, while Virginia Tech entered the weekend with a 7-9 mark, having just given up 33 runs in a series loss at Wake Forest and then dropping a midweek game at William & Mary. So naturally, the Hokies allowed just two runs in two games against the Cavaliers.
Virginia Tech logoA day after Sean Keselica threw a complete-game gem and Virginia Tech won 2-1 on a walk-off walk, the Hokies got strong pitching from Aaron McGarity (6.2 IP, 6 H, 1 R, 0 ER) and Luke Scherzer (2.1 IP, 3 H, 0 R) in a 3-1 win against the Cavaliers. Virginia came unglued Friday, when Brian O'Connor was ejected late in the game (and assessed a four-game suspension for inadvertently making contact with an umpire) and the Cavs walked in the winning run. On Saturday, it was Virginia's turn to load the bases in the ninth, but Scherzer struck out Pavin Smith looking to end the game. The Hokies have been the more poised team in tight spots over the first two games of the series, and they have outpitched one of the nation's best pitching teams. Just how we all figured this series would go.
2. Cal clinches big series against Oregon
Cal Golden Bears logoKendall Rogers highlighted California's big series-opening win in Friday's Ten Thoughts, and the Golden Bears backed up that performance with a 6-2 win Saturday to clinch the series. Ryan Mason (8 IP, 5 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 4 K) stifled the Oregon offense, and the Golden Bears used a balanced 11-hit attack on offense, with seven different Bears recording hits. Cal improved to 15-3 and owns three wins against UC Irvine, three against suddenly surging Kansas State and one against Stanford. By now, it should be clear that the Golden Bears will be a factor in the Pac-12 race.
3. Evergreen State strikes back
Washington State UniversityThe Pac-12's two northernmost teams evened their road series against the conference's two SoCal teams with Saturday wins. Washington State got a complete-game gem from Joe Pistorese (9 IP, 7 H, 2 ER, 1 BB, 8 K) in a 4-2 win at No. 13 Southern California. Tricep issues held the senior back in January, but the Cougars have gradually increased his workload, and his stuff has been crisp, with his fastball getting up into the low 90s at times.
And Washington leveled its series at No. 14 UCLA with an 8-1 win behind ace Tyler Davis (8.1 IP, 6 H, 1 ER), who is quietly putting together another rock-solid season as a senior. Davis improved to 4-1, 2.45 with 29 strikeouts and eight walks in 36.2 innings this spring. I liked the way UW pitching coach Jason Kelly described Davis when I spoke with him last week.
"He's Mr. Consistency; you know that you'll be able to run him out for 100, 115 pitches," Kelly said. "That's why he throws on Saturday for us, he gives the bullpen a break. He's very competitive, comes from an engineering family, so has a little different outlook. He's not the tobacco-spitting, crotch-grabbing kid. A perfect Washington kid, because he's a great kid, and a great competitor."
4. Sun Devils win a thriller
Arizona State Sundevils logoThere was also some drama in the Pac-12 on Saturday, as Arizona State evened its series against Oregon State 4-3 in walk-off fashion. The Beavers jumped out to an early 3-1 lead through two innings against Ryan Kellogg, who settled down to hold them scoreless over the next five innings. Exciting freshman Drew Rasmussen (6.2 IP, 7 H, 1 ER) turned in a strong start for OSU, but the Sun Devils rallied from behind to tie the game in the eighth against the Beaver bullpen. With two men on in the bottom of the ninth, R.J. Ybarra hit a drive to the warning track in left field, and defensive replacement Joey Jansen made an incredible catch crashing into the fence for the second out, temporarily saving the game. But it didn't matter, as Brian Serven followed with a walk-off single to left. It was one of Saturday's most compelling games; the rubber game should be fun.
5. Hoosier Daddy?
Indiana University logoJust when it looked like Cal State Fullerton had found its stride, the Titans dropped a midweek game against San Diego (snapping their seven-game winning streak) and then traveled to Indiana this weekend and proceeded to get swept in a doubleheader Saturday with their co-aces on the mound. The Hoosiers pounded out 10 hits against Thomas Eshelman in the opener and took advantage of three Fullerton errors in the 10th inning to win 5-4. Garza (6 IP, 5 H, 1 ER) was strong in the nightcap, but Fullerton couldn't muster any offense against four Indiana pitchers, who combined on a six-hit shutout. The Hoosiers are now 12-4 and have won series at Stanford and home against Fullerton, and also split two games at College of Charleston. That's an impressive resume for any team, but especially for a club that lost a bushel of All-Americans from last year. Our Michael Baumann was on hand for this one and has more details.
6. Starkville becomes Splitsville
Alabama Crimson Tide logoAlabama and Mississippi State split a doubleheader at Dudy Noble Field on Friday, setting up a rubber game Sunday. The Crimson Tide stormed back from a 5-2 deficit with eight runs in the eighth inning to win the opener 10-5, with Mikie White's three-run homer providing the biggest blow. It was an uncharacteristic implosion for the MSU bullpen, as both Ross Mitchell and Trevor Fitts struggled in the inning. But Mississippi State didn't need no Mississippi Statebullpen in the nightcap, as Austin Sexton (9 IP, 8 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 7 K) went the distance in a 4-1 win. Jake Vickerson had three hits out of the No. 9 spot in the order, and Will Carter was a bit wild for Alabama, issuing six walks. It was a gut-check for the Bulldogs after the ugly eighth inning in Game One, and they showed plenty of resilience by rebounding in the second game.
7. Feisty West Virginia takes down Texas
West Virginia logoThe Mountaineers were one of the big stories of opening weekend when the young squad won a road series at Clemson. On Friday, they opened Big 12 play at Texas and pushed the Longhorns to extra innings before falling 4-3. On Saturday, they jumped out to a 6-0 lead in the first three innings, saw that lead vanish by the sixth, and went to extra innings again. This time, the Mountaineers came out on top, winning 7-6 on a bases-loaded walk by K.C. Huth. Shane Ennis (2.2 IP, 0 H, 0 R) picked up the win with strong relief work. WVU improved to 8-7 on the year, and of course it has yet to play a home game. Ultimately, this young team still looked like a long shot for regionals, but Randy Mazey and his staff always have their Mountaineers ready to play, and they won't be an easy out for any opponent in the Big 12.
8. Wild one in Clemson
Notre Dame logoNotre Dame and Clemson also split a doubleheader Friday. Clemson took the opener 6-1 behind Matthew Crownover (8 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 4 BB, 6 K)-a pretty run-of-the-mill win for the Tigers' ace. But the nightcap was anything but run-of-the-mill, as Notre Dame jumped out to a 6-0 lead, then watched Clemson storm back to tie it in a six-run sixth. But like West Virginia, the Fighting Irish kept their cool and won anyway, scoring five runs in the final two innings to win 11-6. Notre Dame pounded out 16 hits in that one, led by Robert Youngdahl and Zak Kutsulis, who had three hits and two runs apiece. Clemson righty Brody Koerner (3.1 IP, 8 H, 4 ER) struggled for the second straight week since shutting out South Carolina. The performance of the rotation outside of Crownover has been poor since the Gamecock series.
9. There's no stopping the Aggies
Texas AM logoTexas A&M has lost two of its biggest arms to injuries (Tyler Stubblefield and A.J. Minter), but that hasn't stopped the Aggies from winning every game they've played this spring. A&M improved to 20-0 with a series-clinching 10-4 win against Auburn on Saturday, getting a strong start from lefty Matt Kent (8.1 IP, 10 H, 4 ER, 0 BB, 7 K), who gave up two runs in the first and two in the ninth but nothing in between. The A&M offense continued to rake, as it has just about all season. Logan Taylor and Ronnie Gideon led the charge with two hits and two RBIs apiece. That looks like one of the deepest lineups in college baseball, and clearly the pitching staff is very deep too, because it has withstood those two injuries with remarkable aplomb.
10. Stat line of the day: Tennessee Tech's Chris Chism
Tennessee Tech logoTennessee Tech senior righthander Chris Chism made his first stat of the season Saturday in place of the injured John Gora. He made the most of the opportunity, turning in a 17-strikeout, one-hit shutout against Tennessee-Martin to lead TTU to a 2-0 win. It was far from elite competition-the Skyhawks are just 2-11-but stat lines don't get much better than that. By the way, Chism also threw a one-hit shutout against UT Martin last year, when he struck out 10 (a career high at the time).
D1 - Ten Thoughts: Saturday, March 14
1. Hokies pull off upset of the weekend
Third-ranked Virginia carried a 12-2 record into this weekend, while Virginia Tech entered the weekend with a 7-9 mark, having just given up 33 runs in a series loss at Wake Forest and then dropping a midweek game at William & Mary. So naturally, the Hokies allowed just two runs in two games against the Cavaliers.
Virginia Tech logoA day after Sean Keselica threw a complete-game gem and Virginia Tech won 2-1 on a walk-off walk, the Hokies got strong pitching from Aaron McGarity (6.2 IP, 6 H, 1 R, 0 ER) and Luke Scherzer (2.1 IP, 3 H, 0 R) in a 3-1 win against the Cavaliers. Virginia came unglued Friday, when Brian O'Connor was ejected late in the game (and assessed a four-game suspension for inadvertently making contact with an umpire) and the Cavs walked in the winning run. On Saturday, it was Virginia's turn to load the bases in the ninth, but Scherzer struck out Pavin Smith looking to end the game. The Hokies have been the more poised team in tight spots over the first two games of the series, and they have outpitched one of the nation's best pitching teams. Just how we all figured this series would go.
2. Cal clinches big series against Oregon
Cal Golden Bears logoKendall Rogers highlighted California's big series-opening win in Friday's Ten Thoughts, and the Golden Bears backed up that performance with a 6-2 win Saturday to clinch the series. Ryan Mason (8 IP, 5 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 4 K) stifled the Oregon offense, and the Golden Bears used a balanced 11-hit attack on offense, with seven different Bears recording hits. Cal improved to 15-3 and owns three wins against UC Irvine, three against suddenly surging Kansas State and one against Stanford. By now, it should be clear that the Golden Bears will be a factor in the Pac-12 race.
3. Evergreen State strikes back
Washington State UniversityThe Pac-12's two northernmost teams evened their road series against the conference's two SoCal teams with Saturday wins. Washington State got a complete-game gem from Joe Pistorese (9 IP, 7 H, 2 ER, 1 BB, 8 K) in a 4-2 win at No. 13 Southern California. Tricep issues held the senior back in January, but the Cougars have gradually increased his workload, and his stuff has been crisp, with his fastball getting up into the low 90s at times.
And Washington leveled its series at No. 14 UCLA with an 8-1 win behind ace Tyler Davis (8.1 IP, 6 H, 1 ER), who is quietly putting together another rock-solid season as a senior. Davis improved to 4-1, 2.45 with 29 strikeouts and eight walks in 36.2 innings this spring. I liked the way UW pitching coach Jason Kelly described Davis when I spoke with him last week.
"He's Mr. Consistency; you know that you'll be able to run him out for 100, 115 pitches," Kelly said. "That's why he throws on Saturday for us, he gives the bullpen a break. He's very competitive, comes from an engineering family, so has a little different outlook. He's not the tobacco-spitting, crotch-grabbing kid. A perfect Washington kid, because he's a great kid, and a great competitor."
4. Sun Devils win a thriller
Arizona State Sundevils logoThere was also some drama in the Pac-12 on Saturday, as Arizona State evened its series against Oregon State 4-3 in walk-off fashion. The Beavers jumped out to an early 3-1 lead through two innings against Ryan Kellogg, who settled down to hold them scoreless over the next five innings. Exciting freshman Drew Rasmussen (6.2 IP, 7 H, 1 ER) turned in a strong start for OSU, but the Sun Devils rallied from behind to tie the game in the eighth against the Beaver bullpen. With two men on in the bottom of the ninth, R.J. Ybarra hit a drive to the warning track in left field, and defensive replacement Joey Jansen made an incredible catch crashing into the fence for the second out, temporarily saving the game. But it didn't matter, as Brian Serven followed with a walk-off single to left. It was one of Saturday's most compelling games; the rubber game should be fun.
5. Hoosier Daddy?
Indiana University logoJust when it looked like Cal State Fullerton had found its stride, the Titans dropped a midweek game against San Diego (snapping their seven-game winning streak) and then traveled to Indiana this weekend and proceeded to get swept in a doubleheader Saturday with their co-aces on the mound. The Hoosiers pounded out 10 hits against Thomas Eshelman in the opener and took advantage of three Fullerton errors in the 10th inning to win 5-4. Garza (6 IP, 5 H, 1 ER) was strong in the nightcap, but Fullerton couldn't muster any offense against four Indiana pitchers, who combined on a six-hit shutout. The Hoosiers are now 12-4 and have won series at Stanford and home against Fullerton, and also split two games at College of Charleston. That's an impressive resume for any team, but especially for a club that lost a bushel of All-Americans from last year. Our Michael Baumann was on hand for this one and has more details.
6. Starkville becomes Splitsville
Alabama Crimson Tide logoAlabama and Mississippi State split a doubleheader at Dudy Noble Field on Friday, setting up a rubber game Sunday. The Crimson Tide stormed back from a 5-2 deficit with eight runs in the eighth inning to win the opener 10-5, with Mikie White's three-run homer providing the biggest blow. It was an uncharacteristic implosion for the MSU bullpen, as both Ross Mitchell and Trevor Fitts struggled in the inning. But Mississippi State didn't need no Mississippi Statebullpen in the nightcap, as Austin Sexton (9 IP, 8 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 7 K) went the distance in a 4-1 win. Jake Vickerson had three hits out of the No. 9 spot in the order, and Will Carter was a bit wild for Alabama, issuing six walks. It was a gut-check for the Bulldogs after the ugly eighth inning in Game One, and they showed plenty of resilience by rebounding in the second game.
7. Feisty West Virginia takes down Texas
West Virginia logoThe Mountaineers were one of the big stories of opening weekend when the young squad won a road series at Clemson. On Friday, they opened Big 12 play at Texas and pushed the Longhorns to extra innings before falling 4-3. On Saturday, they jumped out to a 6-0 lead in the first three innings, saw that lead vanish by the sixth, and went to extra innings again. This time, the Mountaineers came out on top, winning 7-6 on a bases-loaded walk by K.C. Huth. Shane Ennis (2.2 IP, 0 H, 0 R) picked up the win with strong relief work. WVU improved to 8-7 on the year, and of course it has yet to play a home game. Ultimately, this young team still looked like a long shot for regionals, but Randy Mazey and his staff always have their Mountaineers ready to play, and they won't be an easy out for any opponent in the Big 12.
8. Wild one in Clemson
Notre Dame logoNotre Dame and Clemson also split a doubleheader Friday. Clemson took the opener 6-1 behind Matthew Crownover (8 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 4 BB, 6 K)-a pretty run-of-the-mill win for the Tigers' ace. But the nightcap was anything but run-of-the-mill, as Notre Dame jumped out to a 6-0 lead, then watched Clemson storm back to tie it in a six-run sixth. But like West Virginia, the Fighting Irish kept their cool and won anyway, scoring five runs in the final two innings to win 11-6. Notre Dame pounded out 16 hits in that one, led by Robert Youngdahl and Zak Kutsulis, who had three hits and two runs apiece. Clemson righty Brody Koerner (3.1 IP, 8 H, 4 ER) struggled for the second straight week since shutting out South Carolina. The performance of the rotation outside of Crownover has been poor since the Gamecock series.
9. There's no stopping the Aggies
Texas AM logoTexas A&M has lost two of its biggest arms to injuries (Tyler Stubblefield and A.J. Minter), but that hasn't stopped the Aggies from winning every game they've played this spring. A&M improved to 20-0 with a series-clinching 10-4 win against Auburn on Saturday, getting a strong start from lefty Matt Kent (8.1 IP, 10 H, 4 ER, 0 BB, 7 K), who gave up two runs in the first and two in the ninth but nothing in between. The A&M offense continued to rake, as it has just about all season. Logan Taylor and Ronnie Gideon led the charge with two hits and two RBIs apiece. That looks like one of the deepest lineups in college baseball, and clearly the pitching staff is very deep too, because it has withstood those two injuries with remarkable aplomb.
10. Stat line of the day: Tennessee Tech's Chris Chism
Tennessee Tech logoTennessee Tech senior righthander Chris Chism made his first stat of the season Saturday in place of the injured John Gora. He made the most of the opportunity, turning in a 17-strikeout, one-hit shutout against Tennessee-Martin to lead TTU to a 2-0 win. It was far from elite competition-the Skyhawks are just 2-11-but stat lines don't get much better than that. By the way, Chism also threw a one-hit shutout against UT Martin last year, when he struck out 10 (a career high at the time).
D1 - Ten Thoughts: Saturday, March 14
CBI: Around the Bases (3/14)
Virginia Tech clinches series win over No. 1 Virginia
ASU nips OSU, TCU edges Baylor, Ole Miss outlasts LSU in 14
Virginia Tech 3, No. 1 Virginia 1
In Blacksburg, Va., Aaron McGarity tossed 6.2 splendid innings, and Luke Scherzer tossed the final 2.1 innings - including getting out of a bases-loaded, two-out jam in the ninth - as Virginia Tech captured its ACC series by beating Virginia for the second straight day. The loss was the third straight for the Cavaliers (2-3, 12-4), which hadn't happened since the 2012 season. McGarity (2-1) allowed six hits and one run (unearned), and Scherzer earned his third save for the Hokies (2-2, 9-9). Saige Jenco went 3 for 4 with a run, and Andrew Mogg added two hits and a run for Tech. Adam Haseley led the Cavaliers by going 3 for 4 with a run.
No. 14 Arizona State 4, Oregon State 3
In Phoenix, Brian Serven drove in the game-winner with a single with two outs in the bottom of the ninth as Arizona State rallied with three runs in the final two innings to even its Pac-12 series with Oregon State. Serven (2 for 4) and Joey Bielek (3 for 4) had RBI hits in the eighth to erase a 3-1 deficit to set up Serven's heroics in the ninth. Ryan Burr (3-0) tossed the ninth inning to pick up the win for the Sun Devils (1-1, 11-6). Joe Gillette went 3 for 4 with a run, and Drew Rasmussen allowed one run over 6.1 innings for the Beavers (1-1, 15-4).
No. 2 TCU 3, Baylor 2
In Fort Worth, Preston Morrison overcame a shaky start to deliver 7.1 splendid innings, and TCU rallied for three late runs in beating Baylor for the second straight day in the Big 12. Morrison (4-0) allowed two runs in the first inning before finishing with five hits and a season-high nine strikeouts for the Frogs (2-0, 13-2). Garrett Crain and Dane Steinhagen had RBI singles as TCU tied the game at 2 in the sixth, and the Frogs scored the decisive run on a catcher's interference with the bases loaded in the seventh. Trey Teakell and Riley Ferrell (7th save) closed out the Bears (0-2, 6-11). Cameron Miller and Jonathan Ducoff had RBI for Baylor in the first.
Ole Miss 5, No. 3 LSU 3 (14)
In Baton Rouge, La., Sikes Orvis had a game-tying RBI, doubled in the game-winner in the 14th and also made a key play with his glove at first as Ole Miss outlasted LSU to even their SEC series. Orvis had three of the Rebels' seven hits and made a huge play in the 10th, snaring a line drive at first and firing to third to double off a runner. Wyatt Short picked up the win with 2.2 scoreless innings, and Will Stokes earned his third save for the Rebels (1-1, 10-8). Alex Lange struck out 13 over eight inning for LSU (1-1, 17-2), which totaled 22 strikeouts in the game. Conner Hale had three hits and a run, and Jared Foster contributed two hits and two RBI for the Tigers.
No. 4 Florida 8, Tennessee 3
In Gainesville, Fla., A.J. Puk struck out eight over five solid innings, and Mike Rivera had a two-run homer as Florida evened its SEC series with Tennessee. Dalton Guthrie added two RBI, and Richie Martin went 3 for 5 with a run and RBI for the Gators (1-1, 17-3). David Houser had two hits and two RBI for the Volunteers (1-1, 8-7).
No. 5 Vanderbilt 8-9, Arkansas 7-1 (First game 12 innings)
In Nashville, Vanderbilt rallied for four runs in the ninth to force extra innings in the first game, and Walker Buehler turned in six splendid innings as the Commodores swept an SEC doubleheader from Arkansas. Zach Jackson walked the bases loaded in the ninth in the first game, and Bryan Reynolds plated a run on an error. Tyler Campbell followed with a two-run double before Campbell scored on a wild pitch to tie the game at 7. Arkansas' Tyler Spoon caugh a fly ball in right and threw Ro Coleman out at the plate in the 10th. Coleman then tripled in the game-winner in the 12th. Rhett Wiseman finished 3 for 5 with a homer, two runs and three RBI for the Commodores (2-0, 15-4), and Chad Spanberger had two hits and two RBI for the Razorbacks (0-2, 9-7). Buehler (1-0) allowed one run and struck out seven in six innings, and John Kilichowski struck out six over his three innings of relief for his first save. Wiseman again led the Vandy offense, going 3 for 4 with two RBI.
No. 6 Texas A&M 10, Auburn 4
In College Station, Texas, Matt Kent worked into the ninth, and Logan Taylor had two hits, two runs and two RBI as Texas A&M improved to 20-0 and won the 1,000th game at Olsen Field at Blue Bell Park. Kent (5-0) allowed four runs on 10 hits and struck out seven for the Aggies (2-0, 20-0). Blake Allemand and Ronnie Gideon added two RBI apiece for A&M. Anfernee Grier stayed hot for Auburn, going 3 for 4 with an RBI for the Tigers (0-2, 13-6).
Cal 6, No. 7 Oregon 2
In Berkeley, Calif., Ryan Mason worked eight brilliant innings as Cal beat Oregon for the second straight day and won its 10th straight and 14 in 15 games. Mason (3-0) allowed five hits and two runs (one earned) and struck out four for the Bears (2-0, 15-3). Brett Cumberland, Chris Paul and Preston Grand Pre each had two hits and an RBI for Cal. Brandon Cuddy had two of the five hits for the Ducks (0-2, 13-6).
No. 8 South Carolina 4, Kentucky 3
In Columbia, S.C., Alex Destino and Elliot Caldwell each hit two-run homers in support of Jack Wynkoop, who pitched into the eighth, as South Carolina edged Kentucky to claim their SEC series. Wynkoop (4-1) allowed two runs on seven hits and struck out five in 7.1 innings for the Gamecocks (2-0, 16-3). Taylor Widener posted his sixth save with 1.2 innings. The Wildcats (0-2, 13-5) scored two late on a sac fly from Storm Wilson and an RBI single from Thomas Bernal.
No. 9 UCF 6, Fairfield 5
In Orlando, Dylan Moore and Logan Heiser each homered and drove in two as UCF edged Fairfield to claim their nonconference series. Robby Howell (4-0) tossed four innings, and Harrison Hukari closed with two innings for his third save for the Knights (16-4). Alex Witkus went 2 for 3 with two runs and an RBI, and Mac Crispino had two RBI for the Stags (0-7).
Washington State 4, No. 10 USC 2
In Los Angeles, Joe Pistorese tossed a complete game, and Shane Matheny went 3 for 3 with an RBI as Washington State evened its Pac-12 series with Southern Cal. Pistorese (3-1) allowed seven hits and two runs and struck out eight for the Cougars (1-1, 12-6). Ian Sagdal and P.J. Jones had RBI singles in the fifth - with another run scoring on a wild throw - as WSU scored three times to take a 3-2 lead. Adalberto Carrillo had two hits, including a double, and an RBI for the Trojans (1-1, 16-3).
Washington 8, No. 11 UCLA 1
In Los Angeles, Tyler Davis allowed six hits and one earned run in 8.1 innings, and Jack Meggs had a three-run double as Washington evened its Pac-12 series with UCLA. Josh Cushing went 3 for 5 with two doubles, a run and an RBI as the Huskies (1-1, 13-6) won at UCLA for the first time since 2005. Kevin Kramer went 2 for 4 with an RBI for the Bruins (1-1, 13-5).
No. 12 Rice 8, Louisiana Tech 7
In Houston, Grayson Lewis delivered a two-run single with one out and the bases loaded in the bottom of the ninth as Rice rallied to beat Louisiana Tech in Conference-USA play. Charlie Warren added two RBI, and Ford Stainback, Leon Byrd and John Williamson added three hits apiece for the Owls (2-0, 14-6), who have won six straight. Brent Diaz had two hits and two RBI for the Bulldogs (0-2, 8-8).
No. 13 North Carolina 3, Pitt 1
In Pittsburgh, J.B. Bukauskas tossed six solid innings, and Skye Bolt homered and drove in two as North Carolina evened its ACC series with Pitt. Bukauskas (3-1) allowed four hits and one earned run with six strikeouts for the Tar Heels (3-2, 12-6). Frank Maldonado had two hits and an RBI for the Panthers (2-3, 7-9).
CBI: Around the Bases (3/14)
Virginia Tech clinches series win over No. 1 Virginia
ASU nips OSU, TCU edges Baylor, Ole Miss outlasts LSU in 14
Virginia Tech 3, No. 1 Virginia 1
In Blacksburg, Va., Aaron McGarity tossed 6.2 splendid innings, and Luke Scherzer tossed the final 2.1 innings - including getting out of a bases-loaded, two-out jam in the ninth - as Virginia Tech captured its ACC series by beating Virginia for the second straight day. The loss was the third straight for the Cavaliers (2-3, 12-4), which hadn't happened since the 2012 season. McGarity (2-1) allowed six hits and one run (unearned), and Scherzer earned his third save for the Hokies (2-2, 9-9). Saige Jenco went 3 for 4 with a run, and Andrew Mogg added two hits and a run for Tech. Adam Haseley led the Cavaliers by going 3 for 4 with a run.
No. 14 Arizona State 4, Oregon State 3
In Phoenix, Brian Serven drove in the game-winner with a single with two outs in the bottom of the ninth as Arizona State rallied with three runs in the final two innings to even its Pac-12 series with Oregon State. Serven (2 for 4) and Joey Bielek (3 for 4) had RBI hits in the eighth to erase a 3-1 deficit to set up Serven's heroics in the ninth. Ryan Burr (3-0) tossed the ninth inning to pick up the win for the Sun Devils (1-1, 11-6). Joe Gillette went 3 for 4 with a run, and Drew Rasmussen allowed one run over 6.1 innings for the Beavers (1-1, 15-4).
No. 2 TCU 3, Baylor 2
In Fort Worth, Preston Morrison overcame a shaky start to deliver 7.1 splendid innings, and TCU rallied for three late runs in beating Baylor for the second straight day in the Big 12. Morrison (4-0) allowed two runs in the first inning before finishing with five hits and a season-high nine strikeouts for the Frogs (2-0, 13-2). Garrett Crain and Dane Steinhagen had RBI singles as TCU tied the game at 2 in the sixth, and the Frogs scored the decisive run on a catcher's interference with the bases loaded in the seventh. Trey Teakell and Riley Ferrell (7th save) closed out the Bears (0-2, 6-11). Cameron Miller and Jonathan Ducoff had RBI for Baylor in the first.
Ole Miss 5, No. 3 LSU 3 (14)
In Baton Rouge, La., Sikes Orvis had a game-tying RBI, doubled in the game-winner in the 14th and also made a key play with his glove at first as Ole Miss outlasted LSU to even their SEC series. Orvis had three of the Rebels' seven hits and made a huge play in the 10th, snaring a line drive at first and firing to third to double off a runner. Wyatt Short picked up the win with 2.2 scoreless innings, and Will Stokes earned his third save for the Rebels (1-1, 10-8). Alex Lange struck out 13 over eight inning for LSU (1-1, 17-2), which totaled 22 strikeouts in the game. Conner Hale had three hits and a run, and Jared Foster contributed two hits and two RBI for the Tigers.
No. 4 Florida 8, Tennessee 3
In Gainesville, Fla., A.J. Puk struck out eight over five solid innings, and Mike Rivera had a two-run homer as Florida evened its SEC series with Tennessee. Dalton Guthrie added two RBI, and Richie Martin went 3 for 5 with a run and RBI for the Gators (1-1, 17-3). David Houser had two hits and two RBI for the Volunteers (1-1, 8-7).
No. 5 Vanderbilt 8-9, Arkansas 7-1 (First game 12 innings)
In Nashville, Vanderbilt rallied for four runs in the ninth to force extra innings in the first game, and Walker Buehler turned in six splendid innings as the Commodores swept an SEC doubleheader from Arkansas. Zach Jackson walked the bases loaded in the ninth in the first game, and Bryan Reynolds plated a run on an error. Tyler Campbell followed with a two-run double before Campbell scored on a wild pitch to tie the game at 7. Arkansas' Tyler Spoon caugh a fly ball in right and threw Ro Coleman out at the plate in the 10th. Coleman then tripled in the game-winner in the 12th. Rhett Wiseman finished 3 for 5 with a homer, two runs and three RBI for the Commodores (2-0, 15-4), and Chad Spanberger had two hits and two RBI for the Razorbacks (0-2, 9-7). Buehler (1-0) allowed one run and struck out seven in six innings, and John Kilichowski struck out six over his three innings of relief for his first save. Wiseman again led the Vandy offense, going 3 for 4 with two RBI.
No. 6 Texas A&M 10, Auburn 4
In College Station, Texas, Matt Kent worked into the ninth, and Logan Taylor had two hits, two runs and two RBI as Texas A&M improved to 20-0 and won the 1,000th game at Olsen Field at Blue Bell Park. Kent (5-0) allowed four runs on 10 hits and struck out seven for the Aggies (2-0, 20-0). Blake Allemand and Ronnie Gideon added two RBI apiece for A&M. Anfernee Grier stayed hot for Auburn, going 3 for 4 with an RBI for the Tigers (0-2, 13-6).
Cal 6, No. 7 Oregon 2
In Berkeley, Calif., Ryan Mason worked eight brilliant innings as Cal beat Oregon for the second straight day and won its 10th straight and 14 in 15 games. Mason (3-0) allowed five hits and two runs (one earned) and struck out four for the Bears (2-0, 15-3). Brett Cumberland, Chris Paul and Preston Grand Pre each had two hits and an RBI for Cal. Brandon Cuddy had two of the five hits for the Ducks (0-2, 13-6).
No. 8 South Carolina 4, Kentucky 3
In Columbia, S.C., Alex Destino and Elliot Caldwell each hit two-run homers in support of Jack Wynkoop, who pitched into the eighth, as South Carolina edged Kentucky to claim their SEC series. Wynkoop (4-1) allowed two runs on seven hits and struck out five in 7.1 innings for the Gamecocks (2-0, 16-3). Taylor Widener posted his sixth save with 1.2 innings. The Wildcats (0-2, 13-5) scored two late on a sac fly from Storm Wilson and an RBI single from Thomas Bernal.
No. 9 UCF 6, Fairfield 5
In Orlando, Dylan Moore and Logan Heiser each homered and drove in two as UCF edged Fairfield to claim their nonconference series. Robby Howell (4-0) tossed four innings, and Harrison Hukari closed with two innings for his third save for the Knights (16-4). Alex Witkus went 2 for 3 with two runs and an RBI, and Mac Crispino had two RBI for the Stags (0-7).
Washington State 4, No. 10 USC 2
In Los Angeles, Joe Pistorese tossed a complete game, and Shane Matheny went 3 for 3 with an RBI as Washington State evened its Pac-12 series with Southern Cal. Pistorese (3-1) allowed seven hits and two runs and struck out eight for the Cougars (1-1, 12-6). Ian Sagdal and P.J. Jones had RBI singles in the fifth - with another run scoring on a wild throw - as WSU scored three times to take a 3-2 lead. Adalberto Carrillo had two hits, including a double, and an RBI for the Trojans (1-1, 16-3).
Washington 8, No. 11 UCLA 1
In Los Angeles, Tyler Davis allowed six hits and one earned run in 8.1 innings, and Jack Meggs had a three-run double as Washington evened its Pac-12 series with UCLA. Josh Cushing went 3 for 5 with two doubles, a run and an RBI as the Huskies (1-1, 13-6) won at UCLA for the first time since 2005. Kevin Kramer went 2 for 4 with an RBI for the Bruins (1-1, 13-5).
No. 12 Rice 8, Louisiana Tech 7
In Houston, Grayson Lewis delivered a two-run single with one out and the bases loaded in the bottom of the ninth as Rice rallied to beat Louisiana Tech in Conference-USA play. Charlie Warren added two RBI, and Ford Stainback, Leon Byrd and John Williamson added three hits apiece for the Owls (2-0, 14-6), who have won six straight. Brent Diaz had two hits and two RBI for the Bulldogs (0-2, 8-8).
No. 13 North Carolina 3, Pitt 1
In Pittsburgh, J.B. Bukauskas tossed six solid innings, and Skye Bolt homered and drove in two as North Carolina evened its ACC series with Pitt. Bukauskas (3-1) allowed four hits and one earned run with six strikeouts for the Tar Heels (3-2, 12-6). Frank Maldonado had two hits and an RBI for the Panthers (2-3, 7-9).
CBI: Around the Bases (3/14)
