After a tough loss against Gonzaga, the Cougs bounced back with an extremely efficient win both on offense and defense on March 27. Wazzu got off to a hot start as they were able to tack on four runs in the first inning.
After the first three batters got on base, redshirt freshman outfielder Matt Priest immediately took advantage with an infield single to drive in the Cougars’ first run of the game. The remaining three runs were brought in from a sacrifice fly by sophomore infielder Ollie Obenour, followed by two sacrifice bunts from senior infielder Ryan Skjonsby and sophomore infielder Kyler Northrop.
The following inning Nevada answered back with one run from a sacrifice fly, but the Cougs expanded their lead even more as they put up five in the second inning. Just like the first inning, the first three batters got on, loading the bases. Then, senior outfielder Max Hartman started the inning with a ground out to the shortstop that scored one run. Priest followed up with a double down the left field line to bring in two runs, along with Obenour who crushed a triple deep into right field to score Priest, and finally Skjonsby smacked a single for Obenour to come across home plate.
The Cougs carried their big lead late into the game thanks to redshirt sophomore pitcher Nick Lewis, who threw another gem after going seven innings and only giving up four runs to secure another win on the season.
After the second inning, WSU and Nevada went back and forth scoring a couple runs at a time, maintaining a big lead that carried on until the end as the Cougs came out on top 12-6.
Senior infielder Gavin Roy and Priest continued to stay hot as they both collected a three-hit game with Roy scoring three runs and Priest driving in four runs. Roy talked about what’s been working well for him recently and how he best contributes to the team.
“With the type of lineup we have, I’m just trying to get on base and it’s very simple for me and I’m just trying to stay simple and swing for the guys and that’s kind of all that’s going through my head,” Roy said.
The Cougs are looking to maintain their undefeated streak at home against Nevada March 28.
