By Ethan Ndachi – Spear Reporter | Redshirt senior Zach Tallerman steps up to bat during SJSU’s 5-2 win over Utah Valley Feb. 21. (Photo by Lucas Quick – Spear Photographer)
It was a tight game at Excite Ballpark as San Jose State baseball closed a four-game series against Utah Valley with a 7-5 win on Sunday.
The Spartans move to 6-1, continuing a six-game win streak and they swept a four-game series for the first time since 2009.
The game was highly contested up until the bottom of the eighth inning where SJSU senior Zach Chamizo, scored a thunderous home run for the Spartans which ultimately secured them the win this afternoon.
“It started out pretty rough, I just trusted what I had and what my coaches taught me,” Chamizo said. “I got a hug from Paul [Wiebens] right before that, Coach Wiebens, and it just kind of turned around.”
Senior Win Scott pitched five innings and drew seven strikeouts, as he was key to keeping the game under control early on.
“We played a little flat but we got the energy going those last few innings and that’s what turned it around,” Scott said.
SJSU struggled defensively this game, committing three errors to Utah Valley’s one, as well as being on the short end of fielding percentage (.969 to .921).
A big hit by Utah Valley junior Joe McBride early in the eighth drew two runs to put the Wolverines ahead 5-4.
After Chamizo’s home run, the Spartans were able to shut down Utah Valley in the ninth inning to win it, with sophomore pitcher Tyler Albanese striking out three batters.
“I’m happy in the end but we’ve gotta play better defense if we’re gonna be any good,” SJSU head coach Brad Sanfilippo said, “But I am really happy that we have shown in our character that we don’t quit. I will say that about this group, we don’t quit.”
Next, the Spartans take on Santa Clara at 3:05 p.m. on Tuesday at Excite Ballpark.
