MESA, Ariz. – Justin Wishkoski brought dreams to life in a powerful display.
In the 11th inning, Wishkoski struck a spectacular grand slam, pushing Sam Houston baseball to an 11-7 triumph over Abilene Christian. This victory took place in the first round of the Western Athletic Conference Tournament at Hohokam Stadium on Wednesday.
The Bearkats, seeded second (34-22), are set to clash with the third-seeded Utah Valley on Thursday at 4 p.m. in the winner’s bracket. The Wolverines have just emerged victorious from their bout with Seattle, defeating them 16-6 in eight innings on Wednesday.
This victory is a milestone for Sam Houston, marking their first win in a league tournament opening round game since their success against Stephen F. Austin in 2017. That year, the Kats achieved a 13-1 triumph, securing the Southland Conference Tournament and earning a place in the NCAA Lubbock Regional. The Bearkats managed to beat the 15th ranked Arizona and twice defeat No. 5 Texas Tech, paving their way to the program’s maiden Super Regional appearance that season.
The game on Wednesday saw both teams tied at 7 at the conclusion of the regulation time. The scoreboard remained stagnant as neither team could generate momentum when the match went into overtime.
However, Chandler David, a first-team All-WAC reliever, brought a halt to the Wildcats’ offense from the eighth to the 11th inning, opening the path for Sam Houston to secure the win. And it was Wishkoski who seized this opportunity, demonstrating his immense talent.
Easton Loyd opened the 11th inning by drawing a walk, which was followed by Jake Tatom smashing a double to the right field line, putting two runners in a scoring position. The Wildcats, in a strategic move, intentionally walked first-team All-WAC center fielder Joe Redfield to fill the bases.
The ACU’s attempt to counter with four infielders and halt a possible home run was thwarted by Wishkoski. On the first pitch, he confirmed his status as a first-team All-WAC player by hitting a grand slam down the left field line, bringing his game RBI total to five and closing the game.
Tyler Davis, Redfield, and Loyd contributed to the Bearkats’ win by driving in runs. Davis also stood out by pitching four hitless innings, improving his season record to 5-0.
