Gonzaga Baseball secured their first victory of the season, defeating Hawaii 7-2 in a thrilling 12-inning match in Honolulu. The Zags demonstrated resilience against challenging weather conditions and showcased outstanding performances from their young pitchers, particularly Karsten Sweum and Landon Hood. Gonzaga took an early lead, scoring in the third inning and holding off Hawaii until the late stages of the game, ultimately breaking through in the 12th inning with a series of hits that drove in multiple runs.

By the Numbers
  • Karsen Sweum pitched 5.2 innings, allowing only six baserunners.
  • Landon Hood's first collegiate relief appearance lasted 6.1 innings, with eight strikeouts and no runs allowed.
Yes, But

Despite the Zags' strong showing, they faced challenges from Hawaii's aggressive pitching strategy, which included the use of seven different pitchers throughout the game. This highlights the potential for continued competitive battles in the series.

State of Play
  • Gonzaga's pitching staff excelled, allowing only two runs over 12 innings.
  • The teams have been trading strong innings, with both defenses holding firm for extended periods, resulting in a low-scoring and tightly contested game.
What's Next

Gonzaga aims to build on this victory in a rematch against Hawaii scheduled for Monday afternoon. Consistent pitching and timely hitting will be crucial as they look to gain momentum in the series.

Bottom Line

The Zags' victory underscores their pitching depth and resilience, potentially setting the stage for a crucial series ahead. This win could be pivotal for building team confidence as the season progresses.