The Kansas State Wildcats opened up its season and the team’s long road-trip on the right foot on Friday night, winning the season opener over Stephen F. Austin, 7-6, behind an overall solid team effort.
The Wildcats and the Lumberjacks battled back and forth on Friday as the lead changed hands three times. Shortstop Nick Goodwin began his season going 2 for 5 with a pair of runs scored, while Dom Hughes, Kaelan Culpepper and Raphael Pelletier each collected RBIs in the victory.
The big hit came in the top of the eighth inning as Kyan Lodice ripped a two-run double to right field, scoring Pelletier and Cash Rugley to give the Wildcats a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.
“Excited to start the season off with a victory,” said head coach Pete Hughes to K-State Sports. “I’m proud that we produced runs and made plays under pressure. Never apologize for winning!”
The Wildcats also benefited from strong pitching from returning hurlers Ty Ruhl and Blake Corsentino. Ruhl, the leader in appearances for the team in 2022, pitched five strong innings of one-run ball, striking out four and claimed the victory.
Corsentino pitched a scoreless ninth inning to claim the save and the victory, squandering a base hit and a hit batter.
K-State is now 1-0 on the season and will continue their series with Stephen F. Austin Saturday starting at 2 p.m.
