(Photo: Dominic Cotroneo/WCSN)
Despite a late surge, Arizona State was able to hold on to defeat in-state rival Arizona 7-5 on Tuesday night at Phoenix Muni.
Jordan Aboites toed the rubber for the Sun Devils and got off to a hot start, striking out three of the first seven batters he faced.
Aboites went 5.1 innings giving up four hits, a run, two walks and adding three strikeouts before sliding over to third base.
The offense followed suit, putting two runs in both the first and second innings to put the Devils up 4-0 early.
David Greer, Colby Woodmansee and Andrew Shaps were productive at the plate in all facets, compiling four hits on seven at-bats, four RBI’s, four runs and four walks.
With some contributions from Brian Serven and Tyler Williams to make it seven runs, Arizona State was able to keep its foot on the gas, capturing its fifth conference win.
The fact that it came against Arizona just made it a little sweeter.
Player of the game: Colby Woodmansee
While it might not come as any surprise, Woodmansee had an all-around productive night at the plate, compiling two hits, two RBIs and a walk. After tonight’s performance, Woodmansee’s average now sits at .362.
Unsung hero: Jordan Aboites
Tracy Smith elected to go with Aboites on the mound and the senior didn’t disappoint. He tossed 5.1 innings of one-run ball, giving up just two walks while striking out three in the process. Once he was pulled for Eric Melbostad, Aboites slotted back in at third, where he finished the game.
You knew it was over when:
Woodmansee drove in two runs in the second to make it a 4-0 game. The Wildcats only managed to score two runs in the game, while the Devils were able mound a consistent offensive attack, scoring in five separate innings.
Stat of the night:
Five out of Arizona State’s nine starters finished with an RBI on the night, it was about as well-rounded an offensive attack as one would find in a midweek Pac-12 match-up.
What’s Next?
The home stand continues for the Sun Devils as they host California this weekend for a three game series at Phoenix Muni.
