LUBBOCK, Texas – The 23rd ranked University of Iowa baseball team defeated No. 21 Texas Tech, on Sunday afternoon on Dan Law Field at Rip Griffin Park, 10-9.
In a game that was back and forth until the final inning the Hawkeyes prevailed to avoid being swept in the weekend series.
Iowa trailed 5-4 after three innings before taking a 6-4 lead through five. Texas Tech tied things at 7-7 in the seventh and that was the score heading into the ninth before Iowa scored three and the Red Raiders two.
“We’re really proud of our guys,” said head coach Rick Heller. “After a tough couple days we came out fought hard and found a way to win today. We played hard all weekend but the results weren’t there in games one and two. Today we showed a lot of toughness and character.”
Marcus Morgan got the start for Iowa throwing four innings allowing five runs and striking out three. Luke Llewellyn threw 2 1/3 innings of relief giving up two solo home runs while striking out three.
Cade Obermuller earned his first career win throwing the final 2 2/3 innings and striking out five.
“Offensively, we were much more disciplined with our swing decisions today and it paid off,” said Heller. “For nine innings we put pressure on them. On the mound it wasn’t our best day but we found a way to get it done. Marcus Morgan got us through four innings. Luke Llewellyn and Case Obermueller filled in for our closer Will Christophersen who was unavailable. Cade threw the final three and closed it out in the 9th. It wasn’t perfect for either but they both competed hard. Getting a talented freshman out there in a leverage situation and having him come through should really help his confidence the rest of the season. We are happy to be heading home after four weeks on the road.”
Three Hawkeyes had multi-hit days. Kyle Huckstorf was 3-for-5 with two RBIs with a double and a home run. Brennen Dorighi was 3-for-5 with an RBI in the top of the ninth inning. Chase Moseley had two RBIs in the top of the ninth inning.
Of Note
- Iowa moves to 2-2 on the season in games against ranked opponents.
- The Hawkeyes hit .556 (5-9) to lead off innings, .571 (4-7) with runners on third with less than two outs, and .560 (14-25) in advancement opportunities.
- Huckstorf’s home run was his third of the season.
Up Next
The Hawkeyes (11-3) return home for a midweek matchup with St. Thomas at 2:05 p.m. on Wednesday. The game will be broadcast on BTN+ ($) and the Hawkeye Radio Network.