Aces Shut Out 18th-Ranked Kentucky to Split Doubleheader

University of Evansville baseball team picks up first win over ranked opponent since 2024

Feb. 22, 2026 at 3:38am

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The University of Evansville baseball team split a doubleheader with 18th-ranked Kentucky on Saturday, winning the second game 1-0 behind a dominant pitching performance. The Aces dropped the first game 5-3 before bouncing back with a shutout victory in the nightcap.

Why it matters

This win over a ranked opponent is a significant accomplishment for the Evansville baseball program, which has struggled against top teams in recent years. The shutout also marks the first time Kentucky has been blanked since 2024, highlighting the Aces' strong pitching effort.

The details

In the first game, Evansville took an early lead but Kentucky rallied late to win 5-3. In the second game, Kevin Reed and Tanner Graham combined to limit the Wildcats to just 4 hits, with Aaron Nehls driving in the game's only run in the 2nd inning. Reed picked up the win, while Nate Harris took the loss for Kentucky.

  • The doubleheader took place on Saturday, February 22, 2026.
  • Evansville is scheduled to play at Vanderbilt on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 4:30 PM.

The players

Max Hansmann

Evansville pitcher who turned in a quality start in the first game, allowing just one unearned run over 5 innings.

Kevin Reed

Evansville pitcher who earned the win in the shutout victory, tossing 6 scoreless innings with 5 strikeouts.

Tanner Graham

Evansville pitcher who recorded the save in the shutout, working around a pair of walks in the 8th and 9th innings.

Aaron Nehls

Evansville player who drove in the game's only run with a 2-out single in the 2nd inning of the second game.

Nate Harris

Kentucky pitcher who took the loss in the second game, despite a strong pitching performance.

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What’s next

Evansville is scheduled to play at Vanderbilt on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 4:30 PM.

The takeaway

The Aces' shutout victory over 18th-ranked Kentucky demonstrates the team's ability to compete with top programs, and provides momentum heading into their next matchup against Vanderbilt.