Oklahoma State Powers Past Binghamton with Record Home Run Performance
ATHENS, Ga. – In a thrilling NCAA Athens Regional matchup, third-seeded Oklahoma State University (OSU) propelled itself into the next round by defeating fourth-seeded Binghamton, 13-5, on Saturday at Foley Field. The victory, which showcased a historic offensive explosion, featured an impressive seven home runs, setting a new record for head coach Josh Holliday’s tenure and tying for the seventh-most in NCAA tournament history.
The triumph improved OSU’s record to 29-24, allowing them to advance to face host and seventh-seeded Georgia on Sunday at 11 a.m. (CDT). Binghamton concluded its season with a record of 29-26.
Leading the Cowboys’ offensive barrage was Kollin Ritchie, who went 3-for-4 with two home runs and four RBIs. Six different players hit home runs, with four Cowboys garnering multiple hits in the game. The power surge began early, as OSU took a 2-0 lead in the first inning through a series of doubles, followed by a breakout third inning featuring three consecutive home runs.
Pitching was also pivotal for the Cowboys, as freshman right-hander Stormy Rhodes secured his first collegiate win, allowing just one run over 2 1/3 innings. Starter Hunter Watkins struck out four over 4 2/3 innings, and Ethan Lund wrapped up the game with two scoreless innings.
Despite a late surge from Binghamton, which included two home runs in the fifth inning, OSU sealed the victory with runs in the eighth inning, highlighted by Ritchie’s second home run. The Cowboys look to carry this momentum into their matchup against Georgia, aiming for continued success in the tournament.
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