Sun Devils Rally to Beat Texas Tech, Ending Recent Slump

PHOENIX — Arizona State University‘s baseball team began its inaugural Big 12 season strong but faced recent challenges. On Thursday night, the Sun Devils turned the tide with a 10-4 victory over Texas Tech, marking their first win in a two-week homestand.

The Sun Devils, who faced a series of setbacks, including a home loss to rival Arizona and a tough road defeat at Cincinnati, entered the game looking to break a troubling 3-5 stretch in conference play. With aspirations of ending a three-year postseason drought, a strong performance against Texas Tech was critical to regain momentum.

“We scratched out enough runs to get the ‘W,’” ASU head coach Willie Bloomquist said following the win, emphasizing the team’s overall performance. “All around, pretty good performance by our guys tonight.”

Junior left-hander Ben Jacobs stole the spotlight, striking out a career-high 13 batters over six innings. His dominance on the mound held the Red Raiders scoreless in five of six frames, despite allowing three runs in the third inning. “My stuff was there, I was able to attack the zone, get ahead early,” Jacobs said. “That’s where I do my best.”

Batting ninth in the lineup, junior centerfielder Isaiah Jackson played a key role in the victory, driving in four runs with a three-run homer in the second inning and a go-ahead single in the seventh. His efforts resulted in a 3-for-4 performance, contributing to an explosive late-game offense.

“A nine-hole hitter on our team is not a typical nine-hole hitter,” Bloomquist remarked about Jackson’s significance in the lineup. “He just had a phenomenal day today.”

Senior right-hander Will Koger and sophomore Cole Carlon, who has emerged as a reliable bullpen option, followed Jacobs on the mound. Koger notched two strikeouts, while Carlon closed the game, allowing one hit and one earned run over two innings.

The offensive output was boosted by additional multi-hit performances from junior second baseman Kyle Walker and senior shortstop Matt King. Notably, King extended his hitting streak to 15 games, achieving a 3-for-4 showing and hitting a two-run homer in the eighth inning.

“Matt King, I mean, what can I say about Matt King?” Bloomquist stated. “He just continues to be outstanding.”

Despite the encouraging performance, Bloomquist addressed recent harassment directed at his players amid the team’s struggles. “We had a tough weekend that stung a little bit… if you’re going to threaten my players and my family, come threaten me instead. My office is right upstairs. You’re welcome anytime,” he said, emphasizing the need to support his players through challenging moments.

As the Sun Devils continue their pursuit of a postseason berth, they have shifted their focus to remaining resilient amidst external pressures. “We are going to block out all the external noise and focus on our guys,” Bloomquist affirmed, expressing optimism for the weeks ahead.

In their Thursday night victory, ASU showcased depth and teamwork, crucial elements for navigating the remainder of the Big 12 season as they gear up for not only potential title contention but also to finally break free from their postseason drought.