Razorbacks Crush Longhorns 9-0 in SEC Showdown

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The Arkansas Razorbacks defeated the Texas Longhorns 9-0 Thursday night at Baum-Walker Stadium, demonstrating their strength in SEC play. With an announced crowd of 10,855, the Razorbacks showcased their pitching and batting prowess, shutting out the top-ranked Longhorns for the first time this season.

Arkansas starting pitcher Zach Root delivered an impressive performance, pitching 8 scoreless innings, allowing only 2 hits and recording 11 strikeouts. Root’s commanding presence on the mound helped snap a 10-game win streak for Texas, which suffered its first loss since April 12.

“For us to get a good start like that was big just mentally for our team,” said Arkansas coach Dave Van Horn. The Razorbacks’ defense contributed to the victory, combining for their first shutout of Texas in 2025 under Root’s guidance.

The Razorbacks quickly took control of the game, scoring 2 runs in the second inning. Carson Boles homered to left field, plating 2 runners, including Brent Iredale who had doubled earlier. In the third inning, Cam Kozeal added to the lead with a 3-run home run, pushing the score to 5-0.

Arkansas kept the momentum going with a 4-run fourth inning, highlighted by Wehiwa Aloy‘s 2-run double. The Razorbacks appeared poised for a run-rule finish after Boles was again hit, leading to additional scoring opportunities.

Texas pitcher Ruger Riojas struggled throughout the game, allowing 9 runs and 7 hits in just over 3 innings of work. His performance marked a significant downturn after never surrendering more than 4 runs previously this season.

“He threw some balls in the middle of the plate, especially with 2 strikes, and they made him pay,” Texas coach Jim Schlossnagle said.

The Razorbacks, now 38-9, continue to climb the SEC standings, focusing on a series sweep over Texas. They aim to build on their current momentum as they prepare for the next matchup scheduled for Friday evening.