In Austin, Texas, the Longhorns showcased their dominance with a commanding 4-0 victory over Michigan State at UFCU Disch-Falk Field, thanks to a standout performance from sophomore Dylan Volantis.
Texas, now boasting a 7-0 record, effectively stifled the Spartans, who fell to 2-3, by allowing just five hits and only one baserunner after the third inning. Volantis was the star of the day, delivering a career-high nine strikeouts over seven scoreless innings.
The 6-foot-6 lefty was nearly untouchable, yielding just four infield hits and retiring 15 of the last 16 batters he faced. His precision was evident, with 63 of his 91 pitches finding the strike zone.
The bullpen kept the momentum going, as freshman Brett Crossland made quick work of the eighth inning with just five pitches. Junior Thomas Burns sealed the deal in the ninth, striking out two in a flawless frame.
Offensively, Texas did their damage early, scoring all four runs in the first four innings. Jonah Williams was a key contributor, reaching base three times. He drew a bases-loaded walk in the first, singled in the third, and capped his day with a two-out double in the seventh.
Michigan State's starter, Logan Pikur, struggled against the Longhorns' lineup, allowing four runs in just over three innings.
The Longhorns' pitching staff was exceptional throughout the weekend, giving up only one earned run over the series. In 27 innings, they limited the Spartans to 15 hits while racking up an impressive 32 strikeouts against just four walks. This performance underscores why Texas is a force to be reckoned with this season.