By Max Garcia (@Maxgarci09) – Spear Reporter | Junior infielder Drew Giannini swings the bat during SJSU’s 13-5 loss over Saint Mary’s April 15. (Photo by Lukas Quick – Spear photographer)
San Jose State baseball (20-15, 8-6 MW) crawled back in the ninth inning against Nevada (19-15, 7-7 MW) in a 7-5 win, clinching the three-game series with two wins back to back.
In the ninth inning, the Spartans faced two outs with the bases loaded, trailing 5-4, seeking a decisive moment. The Wolf Pack’s pitching gave up walks and hit a batter, resulting in the bases being loaded.
SJSU Shortstop Roco Caballero delivered the decisive blow with a line drive down the left field line to clear the bases and put SJSU ahead in the top of the ninth.
Caballero had four RBIs in one game for the second time this season. He also hit his second home run of the season.
The Spartans have 24 home runs on the season, including nine in their last six games. Caballero now has 24 RBIs and leads the team with 10 doubles.
“For us to be down 5-4 in the ninth and score three runs—just a huge effort. Great at-bats all around and a big team win,” SJSU head coach Brad Sanfilippo said.
Third baseman JC Osorio-Agard had two hits and a run. At the same time, first baseman Zach Tallerman, right fielder Alex Fernandes, and second baseman Antonio Nanez each added RBI singles.
While on the mound, SJSU pitcher EJ McGrew came in and picked up the win with one scoreless inning of relief. He is now tied for first in the Mountain West Conference with five wins.
SJSU pitcher Tyler Albanese closed it out in the ninth to earn his fifth save of the season, tying him for second in the Mountain West Conference. Albanese is second on the team with 36 strikeouts and 22 innings pitched in the season.
“Huge one here today in Reno. I’m excited about our effort. David Thomas was absolutely phenomenal, pitching into the seventh and giving us a great start. EJ and Berube were solid in relief, and Albanese did a great job closing the door.” Sanflippo said.
The Spartans will look to sweep the series against Nevada on Sunday, April 13, in Reno, Nevada.
