NC State Blows Out Duke in Run-Rule Victory

The Wolfpack secured a sixth-straight win, beating the Blue Devils 18-5 in seven innings.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 10:00am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic energy and competitive spirit of a college baseball game, with sharp planes of vibrant blue, red, and yellow hues.A cubist interpretation of the high-scoring action and shifting momentum of NC State's dominant victory over Duke.Today in Raleigh

The NC State Wolfpack baseball team dominated Duke on Saturday, winning 18-5 in a seven-inning run-rule victory. The win marked the Wolfpack's sixth straight victory, completely shifting the momentum after a recent seven-game losing streak. NC State got a solid start from pitcher Heath Andrews, who nearly went the full seven innings, and the offense exploded for 18 runs on 16 hits, including home runs from Andrew Wiggins and Brayden Fraasman.

Why it matters

This victory helps the Wolfpack secure a third ACC series win and puts them in position to potentially sweep Duke on Sunday. A series sweep would vault NC State back into the national rankings and improve their RPI, potentially putting them back in the conversation to host an NCAA regional.

The details

NC State's offense was led by left fielder Rett Johnson, who went 4-for-4 with 4 runs scored and 2 RBIs. Second baseman Luke Nixon also had a big game, going 3-for-4 with 3 runs and 2 RBIs. Pitcher Heath Andrews settled in after some early defensive issues, retiring 14 straight Duke batters at one point. Pinch hitter Andrew Wiggins hit a 3-run homer, his 5th of the season, to provide a boost off the bench.

  • The Wolfpack secured their sixth straight victory on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
  • NC State pitcher Jacob Dudan will miss the rest of the season after suffering a UCL injury that requires Tommy John surgery.

The players

Heath Andrews

NC State right-handed pitcher who started the game and went 6.2 innings, allowing 5 runs (4 earned) on 5 hits with 2 walks and 6 strikeouts to earn the win.

Rett Johnson

NC State left fielder who went 4-for-4 with 4 runs scored and 2 RBIs, leading the Wolfpack offense.

Andrew Wiggins

NC State pinch hitter who hit a 3-run homer, his 5th of the season, to provide a boost off the bench.

Peter Lemke

Duke starting pitcher who took the loss after allowing 6 runs and being pulled in the 2nd inning.

Elliott Avent

NC State head coach who emphasized combining small ball and power offense to make the Wolfpack's approach more complementary.

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What they’re saying

“You can't get this freshman out!”

— NC State Baseball, Twitter account

What’s next

NC State will look to complete the series sweep of Duke on Sunday, with lefty Cooper Consiglio as the probable starting pitcher for the Wolfpack.

The takeaway

This dominant victory over a conference rival showcases the Wolfpack's offensive firepower and ability to bounce back from a recent slump. A series sweep would significantly boost NC State's postseason resume and put them firmly back in the national rankings conversation.