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Box Score 3 HOBBS, N.M. — Southwest celebrated its seniors in style over the weekend, delivering a decisive three-game sweep of Xavier (LA) at Jake Williams Field. With contributions from throughout the lineup and strong outings from the mound, the Mustangs improved to 25-20 overall and 14-13 in conference play.
"It was a typical crazy senior weekend at home for us," said Southwest Head Coach Steve Appel. "On the first day things started out great, but the weather didn't want to cooperate and we had to postpone after being down early in the second game. We just couldn't catch any breaks with the terrible wind in game 2. On the second day, the guys came out with a little chip on their shoulder and the seniors carried the weight."
GAME ONE: Olivas Breaks Wins Record in 5–0 Shutout
On Friday afternoon, Southwest set the tone early with a 5–0 shutout behind the arm of senior ace Miguel Olivas, who etched his name into the record books with a dominant performance.
Olivas tossed a complete-game gem, scattering six hits across seven innings, striking out eight, and walking none. The win marked his eighth of the season, setting a new Southwest single-season record for most victories by a pitcher.
David Amaya went 2-for-3 with two RBIs and a sacrifice fly, while Hayden Woods added two RBIs in the second. Sage Bonner tallied two hits and two runs, helping back Olivas' milestone effort.
GAME TWO: Wild Comeback Fuels 16–14 Thriller
After weather delayed the conclusion of Game Two, Southwest trailed 9–1 before completing one of the most dramatic comebacks of the season.
The Mustangs exploded for 15 runs across the final five innings to steal a 16–14 win, powered by Carson Miller's eighth-inning go-ahead home run and a relentless offensive surge.
Bonner, Amaya, and Adrian Mata Garcia combined for nine RBIs, while Brian Ledezma added three hits and four RBIs. Alesandro Morrison locked down the win out of the bullpen with 2.1 innings of scoreless relief.
"We somehow found a way to comeback and sneak game 2 and that gave us all the confidence in the world for the last game to sweep the series," said Appel. "The guys never gave up and it was great sitting back watching the guys wanting these victories."
GAME THREE: Senior Statement in 15–5 Rout
With momentum squarely on their side, the Mustangs poured it on in Saturday's finale.
Southwest blasted 15 runs on 13 hits in a 15–5 victory, scoring in every inning but one and never letting Xavier breathe. Seven different players recorded hits, with Amaya, Mata, Woods, and Bonner again leading the offensive charge.
Angel Rios picked up the win, tossing 5.1 strong innings with five strikeouts. Southwest's defense was perfect behind him, committing no errors and executing timely plays.
"This weekend was nothing better than a full program victory and a great way to send our seniors out at home one last time," said Appel. "I'm very appreciative for what these guys have done for this program — and they know we are not done yet."
By the Numbers:
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Southwest totaled 36 runs and 34 hits over the three games.
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Amaya finished the series 6-for-13 with five RBIs and five runs scored.
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Bonner reached base nine times and scored six runs.
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Mata had seven RBIs and five hits over the weekend.
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Olivas now holds the program record for most wins in a season (8).
Looking Ahead:
"We will appreciate the true meaning of Easter and then get back to work on Monday," Appel added. "We still have plenty left to play for and can play with a little bit of ease this next weekend in Texarkana. I'm anxious to get back to work with these guys. If we can tighten a couple things up we can make a run at some things."
He closed with a heartfelt thank you: "Again, one last time, thank you to the seniors who have played their heart out for this university. They continue to make themselves, their families, and this university proud."