In a tough outing at Magnolia Field, Baylor baseball fell to No. 22 West Virginia, 13-2, in a seven-inning clash. The Bears struggled to find their rhythm against a formidable Mountaineers squad.
Game Breakdown
West Virginia wasted no time, jumping ahead with three runs in the first inning. Despite a slick 5-4-3 double play by Baylor, the early damage was done. The Mountaineers continued to press in the second, adding three more runs and extending their lead to 6-0.
Baylor's response came in the fourth when freshman outfielder Brady Janusek singled and was driven home by redshirt senior first baseman Tyce Armstrong's two-run homer, his seventh of the season. However, West Virginia quickly regained control, scoring two in the fifth and three more in the sixth. They added one final run in the seventh, sealing the run-rule victory.
Key Highlights
- Baylor's aggressive base running continues to shine with their 29th stolen base of the season, the most at this point since 2011.
- Redshirt junior infielder Travis Sanders has now reached base in 23 consecutive games.
- Freshman Brady Janusek has been a consistent presence, reaching safely in all 18 games this season.
- Tyce Armstrong extended his hitting streak to five games and leads the team with seven home runs.
- Redshirt freshman outfielder Hunter Snow pushed his hitting streak to six games.
- Junior catcher JJ Kennett has an 11-game on-base streak.
- Senior pitcher Cade Hansen set a season-high with four strikeouts.
- Redshirt freshman pitcher Brayden Bergman recorded his third multi-strikeout game.
Stat of the Day
Tyce Armstrong's seventh homer accounted for all of Baylor's runs, showcasing his power at the plate.
From the Coach
Head Coach Mitch Thompson reflected on the game, emphasizing the need for improved pitching: "We didn't kick it, we just didn't pitch it well enough. Our guys are trying hard.
We've got to work on a few things, but we were competing. WVU's starter was exceptional today.
We'll regroup and aim for a stronger start tomorrow."
Looking Ahead
Baylor and West Virginia are set for a decisive rubber match on Sunday at 11 a.m. at Magnolia Field. The Bears will look to bounce back and take the series against a tough Mountaineers team.