News Summary
Western Kentucky University achieved a significant milestone by sweeping Louisiana Tech in a doubleheader at Nick Denes Field. The Hilltoppers secured their sixth doubleheader win of the season with impressive performances, including a dominant pitching display and a powerful offensive showing. Ethan Lizama and Carlos Vasquez were standout players, contributing key hits throughout the games. This victory not only marked a historic day for WKU but also set a new record for home wins in a season. The team now looks forward to an upcoming series against New Mexico State.
Bowling Green, Kentucky – Western Kentucky University (WKU) showcased an impressive performance on May 4, 2025, defeating Louisiana Tech 22-12 in the second game of a doubleheader at Nick Denes Field. This victory capped off a historic day for WKU, as they also won the first game 5-4, completing a doubleheader sweep and securing their sixth of the season. With this success, WKU improved its overall record to 38-10 and its Conference USA record to 14-7.
In the first game, WKU’s pitching was dominant, holding Louisiana Tech hitless through the first six innings. Despite having numerous opportunities, Louisiana Tech stranded nine base runners, limiting their scoring chances. Ethan Lizama played a key role for WKU, contributing an RBI triple in the second inning, a double in the third that added to a two-run moment, and a solo home run in the fifth inning. Coach Marc Rardin emphasized the team’s focus on playing good baseball, which was evident in their overall performance.
The second game began with a surprising turn as Louisiana Tech scored seven runs with two outs, but WKU quickly countered. The game turned in favor of WKU in the bottom of the first inning, sparked by a two-run single from Kyle Hayes. The Hilltoppers went on an extraordinary offensive rampage, scoring 12 runs in the first inning alone, aided by contributions from various players in the lineup.
Among the highlights of the second game, Carlos Vasquez delivered a pivotal two-run single to tie the game at 7-7. Ryan Wideman followed with a two-run double, pushing WKU ahead and solidifying their scoring momentum. Throughout the game, WKU’s offense remained consistent, adding runs in the second, third, fifth, and sixth innings. Over the doubleheader, WKU accumulated a total of 27 runs on 23 hits, with the team drawing 18 walks and recording 24 RBIs.
A remarkable eight WKU players achieved at least two hits in the second game, reflecting the team’s collective offensive strength. Taylor Penn was credited with the win for WKU in the second game, while Zach Lyles earned a save, contributing to the team’s impressive performance on the mound as well. This doubleheader set a new record for home wins in a season for WKU, surpassing the previous record of 27 wins, which had been achieved three times before, most recently in 2009. Coach Rardin noted the team’s outstanding home record of 28-1 and their perfect record of 6-0 in doubleheaders.
This doubleheader sweep against Louisiana Tech is particularly significant as it marks WKU’s first three-game sweep against the team since 1996. After the doubleheader, WKU is set to face New Mexico State in a three-game series beginning on May 9, 2025. The Hilltoppers will look to maintain their momentum and continue their strong season into the upcoming series.
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Additional Resources
- WKU Completes Series Sweep Over LA Tech
- Wikipedia: Western Kentucky University
- WKU Welcomes LA Tech for Pivotal CUSA Showdown
- Google Search: Western Kentucky University baseball
- Vasquez Delivers Walk-Off Winner as Hilltoppers Edge Louisiana Tech
- Google Scholar: Western Kentucky University baseball 2025
- WKU Volleyball Announces New Courtside Seats and 2025 Schedule
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Baseball
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