STEPHENVILLE, Texas — The Tarleton State Texans (26-15, 6-4 WAC) used an explosive offensive performance and strong pitching to secure a 12–2 victory over Utah Valley (15-26, 1-6 WAC) on Friday at the Tarleton State Baseball Complex.

Tarleton State wasted little time getting on the board, scoring two runs in the bottom of the first inning behind an RBI single from Slade McCloud. The Texans continued to apply pressure in the second, plating four runs to build an early six-run advantage.

The offense stayed hot throughout the night, finishing with 14 hits and drawing nine walks. McCloud led the way with a perfect 4-for-4 performance at the plate, driving in four runs and scoring twice. Brady Englett added a two-run home run in the sixth inning to extend the Texans' lead, while Sergio Guerra contributed three RBI of his own. 

Ike Shirey also had a strong night offensively, recording three hits including a triple as the Texans continued to string together quality at-bats across the lineup. Tarleton State scored in five different innings and capped the night with a run in the seventh to secure the run-rule victory.

On the mound, Matthew McCullough earned the win after tossing four innings, allowing two runs on six hits while striking out four. Jackson Elizondo followed with three scoreless innings in relief, surrendering just one hit and striking out two to close out the game. 

The Texans will return to action on Saturday against Utah Valley at the Tarleton State Baseball Complex. First pitch is scheduled for 3 p.m.