January 24, 2025 – The Jake, Univeristy of the Southwest

The Mustang baseball team secured a thrilling 8-6 victory over Southwestern Christian in a tightly contested game at The Jake. The Mustangs' potent offense and timely pitching earned them their second win of the day, completing a doubleheader sweep. 

Offensive Explosion Fuels Victory 

The Mustangs found their rhythm at the plate, scoring in three key innings to overwhelm the Eagles: 

• Third Inning Surge: Southwest scored two runs thanks to a patient approach at the plate and aggressive baserunning. 

• Fourth Inning Breakout: The Mustangs plated four runs, highlighted by Mark Gonzales' two-run home run and a series of well-timed hits and walks. 

• Sixth Inning Insurance: A clutch two-RBI single from Derrick Martinez in a pinch-hit appearance extended the lead. 

Key Contributors 

• M. Gonzales: The designated hitter crushed a two-run homer in the fourth inning, energizing the team and finishing with two RBIs. 

• D. Amaya: The leadoff hitter delivered a 3-for-5 performance with an RBI, a run scored, and a stolen base. 

• C. Miller: Worked three walks and contributed an RBI, setting the tone for Southwest's patient approach at the plate. 

Solid Defense and Bullpen Resilience 

The Mustangs' defense held firm despite Southwestern Christian's efforts to claw back into the game. Key defensive plays included: 

• A double play in the second inning, halting a potential Eagle rally. 

• K. Wajimu recorded a pivotal strikeout in the sixth inning to escape a bases-loaded jam. 

• A. Rios dominated in the seventh inning, striking out the side to earn the save. 

Pitching Overview 

• I. Sweringen started for Southwest, throwing four innings while allowing four runs on four hits with two strikeouts. 

• The bullpen trio of C. Rush, K. Wajimu, and A. Rios combined to allow just two runs over the final three innings, sealing the victory. 

Final Boxscore 

• Southwest: 8 runs, 6 hits, 0 errors, 11 left on base. 

• Southwestern Christian: 6 runs, 5 hits, 2 errors, 9 left on base. 

Coach's Take 

"I thought our guys battled all day against a good Southwest Christian team. Obviously, it wasn't the greatest conditions, but our guys stayed focused and brought great energy all day. We threw strikes when we needed to, played well defensively, and had some nice timely hits including executing some small ball in the second game. Now it's time to refocus and get back after it tomorrow morning. We have to find a way to win the series heading into next weekend." 

The Mustangs (2-0) will aim to maintain their unbeaten start as they head into their next series.