Utah Tech defeated the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) with an 11-1 run-rule win in eight innings on March 22 at Earl E. Wilson Stadium.
The game marked a turnaround for the Trailblazers after losing to UNLV by run rule just a day earlier. The team loaded the bases in each of their first five innings and broke open the game with a seven-run third inning, sending 13 batters to the plate. Andrew Pyle contributed a two-run single, Petey Soto Jr. added an RBI single, and Ryan Kroepel drove in two more runs with another single during that rally.
Pitcher Brandon Kosel led Utah Tech’s defense by retiring 11 consecutive hitters after allowing two hits in the first inning. He finished his five shutout innings with six strikeouts before turning over pitching duties to three relievers who limited UNLV to one run and two hits for the remainder of the game.
Soto Jr. recorded three hits and three runs batted in (RBI), while Kroepel went two-for-three at bat, walked twice, and also collected three RBI. All nine starters reached base safely as Utah Tech benefited from Rebel pitching issuing 15 walks and hitting four batters throughout the contest.
The win was Utah Tech’s first against its future Mountain West Conference opponent. The Trailblazers improved their record to 16-9 overall as they prepare for a four-game road trip through the Midwest later this month.
