The Texas Longhorns, in an emphatic display of firepower, thrashed No. 17 Texas Tech 22-8, in the inaugural game of the Big 12 Conference play on Friday. With a season-high 20 hits on the board, the No. 24-ranked Longhorns left the Red Raiders reeling in their backyard at Lubbock, according to KXAN.
The game, as reported by the Austin American-Statesman, featured a stellar lineup where every Texas batter logged at least one hit. Freshman Will Gasparino delivered a notable performance, going 5-for-6 with four runs, four RBIs, and launching a grand slam in the process. The offensive explosion also included round-trippers from Max Belyeu and Porter Brown, along with Rylan Galvan's own grand slam.
Austin's own didn't just do the heavy lifting with the bat, though, their pitching was on point too. Ace Whitehead, who stepped in as a reliever, claimed the win after hurling 4 2/3 innings, striking out seven, and conceding three earned runs on five hits.
On a side note that adds a wrinkle to the Longhorn's storyline this weekend, assistant coach Philip Miller is not in attendance with the team. "He has requested, and been approved for a personal leave of absence," a team spokesperson shared during Friday's game. The specifics of Miller's leave remain undisclosed as the Longhorns prepare for their next showdown with the Red Raiders on Saturday afternoon, as per the Austin American-Statesman.
