West Virginia Clinches Clemson Regional Title with Thrilling Comeback
CLEMSON, S.C. – In a dramatic finish, West Virginia’s baseball team rallied past Kentucky, clinching a thrilling 13-12 victory to win the Clemson Regional on Sunday night. The Mountaineers’ standout performances included four RBIs from Ben Lumsden, three from Gavin Kelly, and a crucial two-out RBI single from Armani Guzman, who capped off a six-run rally in the eighth inning.
This victory marks West Virginia’s second consecutive trip to the super regionals, under the leadership of first-year head coach Steve Sabins. Sabins, who spent nine years as an assistant coach, takes the reins following the retirement of Randy Mazey.
Guzman was a key player throughout the night, finishing with four hits and three RBIs. The dramatic eighth inning unfolded after Kentucky initially led by five runs, thanks to a solo home run from Devin Burkes. However, West Virginia’s momentum surged after Grant Hussey drew a bases-loaded walk, followed by Sam White’s RBI walk, leveling the game at 12-12. Kelly and Lumsden then delivered back-to-back two-run singles to secure the lead.
Kentucky had made its mark earlier with a strong offensive display, highlighted by Cole Hage’s contributions and Burkes’ earlier fireworks. However, the team’s efforts weren’t enough against West Virginia’s relentless comeback.
Pitcher Benjamin Hudson (3-1) took the mound in the eighth and allowed another solo homer but ultimately set the stage for Griffin Kirn, who closed out the game with a scoreless ninth for his first save.
With this victory, West Virginia looks ahead to the super regional, showcasing resilience and an explosive offensive performance to maintain their championship hopes.
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