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BYU Softball Rallies to Beat Utah in Extras; Baseball Upsets No. 22 Arizona
It was a thrilling night for BYU athletics as both the softball and baseball teams pulled off impressive victories, showcasing resilience, talent, and heart. In a dramatic comeback, BYU softball erased a four-run deficit to defeat in-state rival Utah in extra innings. Meanwhile, BYU baseball delivered a statement win on the road, knocking off nationally ranked No. 22 Arizona.
The BYU softball team faced early struggles against Utah, falling behind 4-0 in the opening innings. Utah’s bats came alive early, putting pressure on BYU’s pitching and defense. However, the Cougars refused to back down. A determined offense chipped away at the lead, fueled by timely hitting and aggressive base running. BYU finally tied the game late, sending it into extra innings where they capitalized on a Utah error and clutch hitting to seal a memorable victory.
Leading the way for BYU was senior infielder Huntyr Ava, who delivered a key RBI double that helped spark the comeback. The bullpen also stepped up in a big way, shutting down Utah’s offense in the later innings and giving the Cougars a chance to rally. It was a statement win for BYU, especially given the intensity of the rivalry and the early adversity they faced.
“This team has a lot of heart,” said BYU head coach Gordon Eakin after the game. “We never stopped believing, and it showed tonight.”
Across the athletic fields, BYU baseball also delivered one of its biggest wins of the season. Taking on No. 22 Arizona in Tucson, the Cougars played one of their most complete games of the year. Strong pitching, steady defense, and explosive offense carried them to a significant upset.
BYU jumped out to an early lead with a three-run first inning, highlighted by a towering home run from junior outfielder Ryan Sepede. The Cougars continued to apply pressure, scoring in multiple innings and refusing to let Arizona mount a comeback. On the mound, starter Cutter Clawson delivered a gutsy performance, keeping the Wildcats’ potent offense in check through six strong innings.
Arizona threatened late in the game, loading the bases in the eighth inning. But BYU’s bullpen remained composed, getting a critical double play to escape the jam. The Cougars tacked on an insurance run in the ninth and held on for a thrilling win.
“This was a big one for us,” said BYU baseball coach Trent Pratt. “We showed we can compete with anyone when we play our brand of baseball.”
The victories come at a pivotal time for both programs as they gear up for conference play. For the softball team, the comeback against Utah could serve as a defining moment, building momentum for the weeks ahead. For baseball, taking down a Top 25 team on the road boosts their confidence and bolsters their postseason hopes.
BYU fans had plenty to celebrate with both teams showing resilience, composure, and toughness. It was a night that reminded everyone of the grit that defines BYU athletics.
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