Arizona Wildcats Defeat No. 23 Arizona State in Extra Innings

Cain and Hicks lead Wildcats to clutch road victory over in-state rival Sun Devils

Apr. 14, 2026 at 7:05am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball game, with sharp, overlapping planes of bright orange, deep blue, and metallic silver representing the dynamic action and energy of the contest.Arizona's extra-inning victory over rival Arizona State showcases the team's resilience and ability to win close games against top competition.Phoenix Today

The University of Arizona baseball team defeated No. 23 Arizona State 5-3 in 11 innings, led by a strong offensive performance from Andrew Cain and clutch relief pitching from Garrett Hicks. Cain had three hits, including a go-ahead RBI double in the 11th, while Hicks threw 3 scoreless innings to earn the win for the Wildcats.

Why it matters

This victory over their in-state rival is a big boost for the Wildcats, who have struggled this season but were able to pull out a hard-fought extra-inning win against a ranked opponent on the road. The win could provide momentum as Arizona looks to finish the season strong.

The details

Arizona jumped out to an early 3-0 lead with home runs from Cain, Nate Novitske, and Beau Sylvester. Arizona State tied the game at 3-3 in the 8th inning, but the Wildcats regained the lead in the 11th on Cain's RBI double and an insurance run. Hicks came in to pitch the final 3 innings, allowing just 2 hits to earn the win.

  • The game took place on April 14, 2026.
  • Arizona struck first with a home run in the 2nd inning.
  • The game was tied 3-3 after 9 innings, leading to extra frames.
  • Cain's go-ahead RBI double came in the top of the 11th inning.
  • Hicks closed out the game in the bottom of the 11th.

The players

Andrew Cain

A key offensive contributor for the Wildcats, Cain had 3 hits including a home run and the go-ahead RBI double in extra innings.

Garrett Hicks

The Wildcats' relief pitcher who threw 3 scoreless innings to earn the win, shutting down the Sun Devils' offense in extra frames.

Nate Novitske

Arizona's starting center fielder who hit a solo home run to extend the Wildcats' early lead.

Beau Sylvester

The Wildcats' first baseman who also hit a solo home run in the early innings.

Corey Kling

Arizona's starting pitcher who tossed 3 scoreless, hitless innings to keep the Sun Devils at bay.

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What they’re saying

“This was a huge win for us on the road against a ranked opponent. The guys really battled and showed a lot of heart to come away with the victory.”

— Jay Johnson, Arizona Head Coach

What’s next

The Wildcats will return home to host Kansas State this Friday, April 17th at 6:00 PM MST.

The takeaway

This extra-inning triumph over their in-state rival could provide a much-needed boost for the struggling Wildcats, who have shown they can compete with top teams when their offense and pitching both perform at a high level.