Led by a dominant performance from junior pitcher Braden Davis, No. 22 Oklahoma State defeated Texas Tech University in the first of a three-game series Friday night at Dan Law Field at Rip Griffin Park. They shut out the game 8-0.
According to Oklahoma Athletics, Davis and the Sooners' defense held the Red Raiders' offense to just four hits and no runs, resulting in their fourth shutout victory of the season.
Davis made his 10th start on the mound for the Sooners this season, allowing two Tech hits in seven innings pitched. According to the Oklahoma Athletics, Davis posted a 4.43 ERA, a game-high eight strikeouts, and earned his fifth win since retiring in the top of the eighth inning.
“I thought Davis threw the ball really well,” Tech University baseball head coach Tim Tadlock said. “I think they outplayed us in every phase of the game, starting with pitching and defense. They had some tough at-bats and good base running, so hats off to them.”
Most of the Sooners' scoring came in the top of the fifth inning after Tech made three defensive errors that resulted in four points for Oklahoma's offense, three of which were unearned.
“So the first thing I think is, I feel responsible for that,” Tadlock said. “We put (Austin) Green in right field. (He) hadn't played a week, and things took off from there. And as for the other mistakes, it's like, 'We did the right thing, right?' Okay?” and went back to practicing. ”
Offensively, seven of Oklahoma's starting pitchers scored, with senior Kendall Pettis leading the team with two points. Additionally, juniors John Spikerman and Scott Maddler each had two RBIs.
According to Tech Athletics, Tech's senior starting pitcher Ryan Free contributed to the Sooners' seven runs, resulting in their first loss of the season.
Junior Gavin Kash led Tech's attack with two of his four hits.
According to Tech Athletics, the last time the Red Raiders suffered a shutout loss at home was on June 12, 2021, when they lost 9-0 to Stanford University.
Game 2 of the series is scheduled for Saturday at 2 p.m. at Dan Law Field at Rip Griffin Park.
