ASU Offense Erupts for 17 Runs in Rout Over UConn

Sophomore Landon Hairston drives in 7 runs as Sun Devils' bats come alive

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The Arizona State University baseball team put on an offensive showcase, scoring 17 runs in a rout over the University of Connecticut. Senior pitcher Kole Klecker had a strong outing, but it was the Sun Devils' lineup that stole the show, with sophomore outfielder Landon Hairston driving in 7 runs, including a grand slam. The Sun Devils' offense has been firing on all cylinders to start the season, scoring 24 runs in a sweep over the weekend before exploding for 17 more against UConn.

Why it matters

This game highlights the potent offense that ASU has assembled this season, with several key transfers and returning players contributing to the team's hot start. The Sun Devils' ability to put up big offensive numbers could make them a force to be reckoned with in the Pac-12 conference and beyond.

The details

ASU senior right-handed pitcher Kole Klecker, a Chandler native, had a strong outing, striking out 7 batters over 5 innings while allowing just 2 hits and 1 run. However, it was the Sun Devils' offense that stole the show, erupting for 17 runs on 15 hits, including 4 home runs and 9 extra-base hits. Sophomore outfielder Landon Hairston was the offensive star, clearing the bases twice - once with a bases-loaded double and once with a grand slam, driving in 7 runs on the night.

  • The game was played on Tuesday, February 18, 2026 at Phoenix Municipal Stadium.

The players

Kole Klecker

A senior right-handed pitcher for Arizona State University who had a strong outing, striking out 7 batters over 5 innings.

Landon Hairston

A sophomore outfielder for Arizona State University who had a huge night at the plate, driving in 7 runs with a bases-loaded double and a grand slam.

Willie Bloomquist

The head coach of the Arizona State University baseball team, who praised Klecker's performance and said he could earn a weekend starting spot.

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What they’re saying

“It was awesome. I had a lot of fun. Going out there, it was cool to be a part of it. Our offense is a good offense. When we get rolling, it's lights out, for sure. So it was awesome.”

— Dominic Longo, Junior outfielder, Arizona State University (on3.com)

“I think just being more comfortable with my swing, with my approach, with everything last year, like I've said before, just battling early on, kind of a scrawny freshman, just trying to keep up with the big guys. But now that I've seen a couple of at-bats and gotten used to it, I'm definitely more comfortable and confident in my ability.”

— Landon Hairston, Sophomore outfielder, Arizona State University (on3.com)

“It's a really cool experience, surreal, kind of full circle. If you would have asked me when I was eight years old if I was going to play college baseball where I play, I'd have said ASU. Obviously, I ended up at TCU for a couple of years, but it's really nice to be back here. Really special. A lot of people were able to come out and watch and support me. So it's just been really cool.”

— Kole Klecker, Senior pitcher, Arizona State University (on3.com)

What’s next

With Klecker's strong outing, ASU head coach Willie Bloomquist said the senior right-hander could earn a weekend starting spot, potentially moving from his current midweek role.

The takeaway

Arizona State's explosive offense has been the story of the early season, as the Sun Devils have scored 41 runs in their first four games. With a potent lineup featuring several key transfers and returning players, ASU has the potential to be one of the top offensive teams in the Pac-12 and a force to be reckoned with nationally.