Baylor Baseball Falls Short Against No. 18 Southern Miss at Round Rock Classic
In a challenging matchup at the 2026 Round Rock Classic, Baylor baseball couldn't capitalize on their opportunities, falling to No. 18 Southern Miss with a final score of 5-1. Despite drawing nine walks and being hit by pitches three times, the Bears struggled to convert these chances into runs, leaving 13 runners stranded on base.
Senior right-hander Cade Hansen, making just his second career start at the Division I level, showed resilience on the mound. Hansen allowed three runs on six hits, walked three, and struck out three, managing to minimize the damage and keep Baylor within striking distance for much of the game. However, the Bears couldn’t overcome the early deficit as Southern Miss took control with a two-run lead they never relinquished.
Game Breakdown
The Golden Eagles took advantage of Baylor's generosity in the second inning, scoring twice after four free passes. Baylor had a chance to respond in the bottom of the inning with the bases loaded but failed to bring anyone home. Hansen managed a crucial strikeout in the third to keep the game close, and Baylor got on the board in their half of the inning when Hunter Snow was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded.
Southern Miss extended their lead in the fourth with an RBI single, although a strong throw from freshman outfielder Bo Caraway prevented further damage. Baylor's defense continued to shine with inning-ending double plays in the fifth and seventh, keeping the score at 3-1 until the ninth. However, a throwing error and an RBI single by Southern Miss in the final frame sealed the deal at 5-1.
Despite a late attempt to rally in the bottom of the ninth, Baylor couldn't muster the runs needed to challenge Southern Miss's lead.
Key Highlights
- Baylor's aggressive base running has resulted in 15 stolen bases over their first seven games, marking their best start in this area since 2011.
- Freshman outfielder Brady Janusek and sophomore infielder Pearson Riebock have both reached base safely in every game this season.
- Redshirt junior infielder Travis Sanders extended his on-base streak to 12 games, a testament to his consistency.
- Riebock and Sanders earned spots on the Round Rock Classic All-Tournament Team.
- Hunter Snow's record-setting performance saw him hit by a pitch three times, tying a Baylor single-game record.
- Redshirt sophomore catcher Brayden Buchanan was a bright spot offensively, securing two of Baylor's three hits for his third career multi-hit game.
- Junior pitchers Charlie Atkinson and Mason Green continued their strong starts with scoreless appearances.
Stat of the Day
Brayden Buchanan was responsible for two of Baylor’s three hits, continuing his impressive form with back-to-back multi-hit games.
Coach's Corner
Head Coach Mitch Thompson expressed his disappointment in the team's offensive struggles. "We had opportunities but couldn't get the big hit," Thompson said. He praised the pitching staff for keeping the game within reach and emphasized the importance of playing complete games to secure wins against quality opponents.
Looking Ahead
Baylor (4-3) returns home for a midweek clash against Stephen F. Austin (7-2) on Tuesday, Feb. 24, at Magnolia Field at Baylor Ballpark in Waco, with the first pitch set for 4 p.m. Fans can follow the team's journey on social media at @BaylorBaseball.