ASU Baseball Defeats Omaha 7-2 in Season Opener

Sun Devils showcase balanced attack and strong pitching in decisive victory

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The Arizona State University baseball team kicked off the 2026 season with a 7-2 win over the Omaha Mavericks on Friday evening at Phoenix Municipal Stadium. The game, played before a crowd of 3,690, saw contributions from both newcomers and seasoned players, as the Sun Devils displayed a potent combination of offensive firepower and pitching depth.

Why it matters

This win sets the tone for Arizona State's season as they look to build momentum in The Summit League. The balanced performance from the Sun Devils suggests they will be a formidable opponent in the conference and beyond.

The details

Senior second baseman Nu'u Contrades led the offensive charge, going 2-for-2 with a single and a double, scoring three times and adding two stolen bases. Newcomers PJ Moutzouridis and Garrett Michel also made immediate impacts, with Moutzouridis going 3-for-4 with three singles and an RBI, and Michel going 2-for-4 with an RBI. On the mound, Cole Carlon delivered five innings of one-run ball, and the bullpen effectively managed the remaining four innings.

  • The game was played on Friday, February 13, 2026.
  • The next game in the series is scheduled for Saturday, February 14, 2026.

The players

Nu'u Contrades

A senior second baseman who led the offensive charge for the Sun Devils, going 2-for-2 with a single and a double, scoring three times and adding two stolen bases.

PJ Moutzouridis

A newcomer who went 3-for-4 with three singles and an RBI in his Sun Devil debut.

Garrett Michel

A newcomer who went 2-for-4 with an RBI in his Sun Devil debut.

Cole Carlon

The starting pitcher for the Sun Devils, who delivered five innings of one-run ball.

Willie Bloomquist

The head coach of the Arizona State baseball team, earning his first win with the Sun Devils.

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What’s next

The Sun Devils and Mavericks will continue their three-game series, with the next game scheduled for Saturday, February 14th. Fans can expect a competitive matchup as Omaha looks to rebound and even the series.

The takeaway

Arizona State's balanced performance, featuring contributions from both newcomers and seasoned players, as well as strong pitching, suggests the Sun Devils will be a force to be reckoned with in The Summit League this season.