Washington State's Late Surge Secures Series Sweep Over Grand Canyon
In an impressive display of resilience, Washington State pulled off a thrilling 6-2 victory against Grand Canyon at Bailey-Brayton Field, completing a series sweep on Sunday afternoon. The Cougars, now sitting at 10-12 overall and 4-2 in the MWC, showcased their grit and determination, particularly in the eighth inning.
Game-Changing Eighth Inning
Ollie Obenour stepped up when it mattered most, breaking a 2-2 deadlock with a clutch RBI single through the left side. This hit set the stage for Ryan Skjonsby, who followed with a towering two-run homer to right-center, energizing the home crowd. Kyler Northrop then capped the inning with an RBI double, sealing the deal for the Cougars and marking their first series sweep since last season against San Diego State.
Standout Performances
Northrop was a force at the plate, matching his career-high with three hits, including two doubles. Gavin Roy and Obenour each contributed two hits, while Skjonsby's homer was his team-leading third of the season.
On the mound, Rylan Haider picked up the win, skillfully navigating out of an eighth-inning jam with a crucial 5-4-3 double play. Scott Rienguette then closed the door in the ninth, ensuring the victory.
Pitching Duel and Key Plays
The game began as a pitching duel, with both starters trading zeros through the first four innings. WSU capitalized on Grand Canyon's defensive miscues in the fifth, starting with Northrop's leadoff double. A misplayed sacrifice bunt allowed him to score, and Roy's RBI double gave the Cougars a 2-0 lead.
Luke Meyers, the Cougar starter, delivered a stellar performance, pitching six scoreless innings with four strikeouts and no walks, allowing just three hits. However, a seventh-inning two-run homer by Grand Canyon tied the game, setting the stage for Washington State's late heroics.
Key Stats and Streaks
- Gavin Roy extended his on-base and hitting streaks to nine games with a fifth-inning double.
- Max Hartman's infield bunt single in the eighth kept his hitting streak alive at seven games.
- Dane Chavez extended his on-base streak to 13 games after being hit by a pitch in the second inning.
Looking Ahead
With momentum on their side, the Cougars are set to face Gonzaga in Spokane on Tuesday night at 6 p.m. Fans will be eager to see if Washington State can continue their winning ways against a formidable opponent.