UNLV Rebels Secure Series Victory Against Washington State

News Summary

The UNLV Hustlin’ Rebels baseball team clinched a crucial Mountain West series against the Washington State Cougars with a 5-2 victory. The Rebels demonstrated strong offensive performance and solid pitching, important as they approach the end of the regular season. With only one series left before the playoffs, each win is vital. The team will now prepare to honor their seniors in the upcoming series against Air Force, aiming for a strong finish to their season.

Pullman, WA – The UNLV Hustlin’ Rebels baseball team celebrated a significant victory on Sunday, clinching a Mountain West Conference series against the Washington State Cougars with a final score of 5-2. This win enables the Rebels to hold onto fourth place in the Mountain West standings as the regular season draws near its conclusion next weekend.

The Sunday matchup at Bailey-Brayton Field proved critical for the Rebels, who are looking to secure a better position as they approach the end of the season. With only one series left before the playoffs, every win becomes increasingly vital. Their final Mountain West Conference series will commence on Thursday, May 15, at home against the Air Force Falcons and conclude on Saturday, May 17, a game in which the team will honor its 14 seniors.

In the decisive game against Washington State, several players shone for the Rebels. Mikey Cruz Jr. delivered a standout performance, collecting four hits—each a single—and scoring two runs during the game. Additionally, Dean Toigo extended his impressive hitting streak to 17 games, recording one hit and driving in an RBI. Brendan O’Sullivan also contributed positively, achieving two hits and bringing in a runner with a sacrifice fly. Cole Koniarsky added to the team’s success with a pair of doubles, further demonstrating the Rebels’ offensive prowess.

On the mound, Sam Simon was instrumental in securing the win, pitching seven innings and allowing just two earned runs on five hits. With this performance, Simon earned his third win of the season. Alex Overbay closed the game by striking out the side in the ninth inning, securing his seventh save of the season.

Head coach Stan Stolte commended Simon’s pitching and the team’s overall solid defensive performance throughout the game. This victory was particularly meaningful, as it came on the heels of a mixed performance in the earlier games of the weekend series. The Rebels had lost the second game against Washington State 5-4 but had managed to take the opening game 4-3.

An impressive highlight from the series was Dean Toigo’s achievement of hitting his conference-leading 16th home run. Overall, this weekend’s performances have contributed positively to the Rebels’ season, which now stands at a total of 28 wins against 22 losses, including a conference record of 13-14.

With the regular season winding down, the upcoming series against Air Force represents a pivotal moment for the Rebels as they prepare to make a push in the last stretch of games. The culmination of their season will see them honoring their seniors, highlighting the importance of teamwork and dedication among the players. Every match will be integral leading up to the postseason, making the upcoming tasks even more critical in their pursuit of success.