LUBBOCK, Texas — Tarleton State (25-15, 5-4 WAC) dropped a midweek contest to Texas Tech (21-19, 6-12 Big 12) on Tuesday at Rip Griffin Park, falling 13–3 after the Red Raiders used big innings early to take control of the game. 

Tarleton State struck first in the opening inning when Slade McCloud delivered an RBI triple to right field, scoring Kendyl Johnson. Moments later, Ike Shirey reached on a fielding error that allowed McCloud to cross the plate, giving the Texans an early 2–0 advantage. 

Texas Tech responded quickly in the bottom of the second, stringing together multiple hits to score six runs and take the lead. The Red Raiders continued the momentum in the third inning, adding five more runs, highlighted by a two-run home run from Logan Hughes to extend the lead to 11–2. 

Tarleton State added its final run in the fifth inning when Raphael Smeenk drew an RBI walk, bringing home Rayner Heinrich after consecutive singles put runners in scoring position. 

On the mound, Carter Coffin (0-1) was charged with the loss after allowing six runs in relief. Tarleton State used six pitchers in the game, with Karsen Davis providing 2.1 scoreless innings out of the bullpen. 

Tarleton State will return home on Friday to open a conference series against Utah Valley. First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m. at the Tarleton State Baseball Complex.