Hansen leads No. 2 Texas baseball to 12-2 rout of Fairfield; Horns win Regional
AUSTIN, Texas — On a perfect day in Austin, Texas, 6,853 fans (mostly Longhorns fans) came out to UFCU Disch-Falk Field to experience Texas Baseball on its #RoadToOmaha. Texas scored one in the first, four in the second, five in the third, two in the fifth en route to a 12-2 rout of Fairfield in the NCAA Austin Regional.
The Longhorns advance to one of eight NCAA Super Regionals that start Friday, June 11. Teams will play a best-of-three series to see who advances to Omaha.
Texas starter Pete Hansen struck out 13 and allowed just four hits and two runs over 6-2/3 innings to pick up the win, improving his record to 9-1.
The Longhorns started the first inning immediately getting on base by walking: center fielder Mike Antico walked and stole second. Designated hitter Ivan Melendez, third baseman Cam Williams and right fielder Douglas Hodo III walked, allowing Antico to score. Fairfield starter Jack Erback (0-1) was saddled with the loss despite lasting just two-thirds of an inning.
In the second inning, Texas took advantage of Fairfield's pitcher with a bunt that allowed left fielder Eric Kennedy to advance to second on a wild throw to first. Antico then singled on another bunt to first base, advanced to second on a throwing error and eventually scored on a single by first baseman Zach Zubia. Texas methodically took advantage of every error, wild pitch and walk to score four in the second inning.
Texas walked three times again in the third inning Hodo drove in three runs on a triple to right-center, giving UT a commanding 10-2 lead. UT put two more runs up in the fifth when shortstop Trey Faltine singled to left, driving in Williams and Melendez.
Texas only held a 9-7 advantage in hits in the game, but plate discipline was critical. The Longhorns drew 11 walks, while UT pitchers allowed none.
Texas fans are having a blast and creating memories: Naomi Galvin posted a perfect fan picture during tonight's game. #Hookem
NCAA Baseball highlights reliever Cole Quintanilla with "Bring the Heat" comments and #RoadToOmaha.
