ASU Splits Series Against No. 13 Oklahoma in Two Contrasting Games

Sun Devils' pitching shines in Game 1 blowout, but bats go cold in Game 2 loss

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The Arizona State University baseball team split a two-game series against No. 13 Oklahoma, winning the first game 15-3 in a dominant performance but losing the second game 4-3 in a heartbreaking walk-off. The Sun Devils' offense erupted for 14 runs across the second and third innings in the opener, powered by two home runs from sophomore outfielder Landon Hairston. However, the bats went cold in Game 2, as ASU couldn't capitalize on early scoring chances, leading to a late Oklahoma comeback.

Why it matters

This series showcased the Sun Devils' potential, as they proved they can compete with one of the nation's elite teams. However, the Game 2 loss also highlighted ASU's recurring late-inning struggles, an issue that has plagued the team in recent years. The split leaves the Sun Devils with a mix of awe at their offensive outburst and frustration at their inability to close out the series against a highly ranked opponent.

The details

In Game 1, ASU erupted for eight runs in the second inning and six more in the third, compiling 15 hits, including 10 extra-base hits. Junior infielder Nu'u Contrades set the tone with a double to spark the second-inning rally, and Hairston launched two home runs, including a 432-foot blast. Senior right-hander Kole Klecker provided stability on the mound, allowing three runs over five innings. In Game 2, ASU jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first inning but couldn't add to it, going 1-for-6 with runners in scoring position. Junior right-hander Derek Schaefer couldn't hold the lead in the ninth, as Oklahoma rallied with three consecutive extra-base hits to tie the game and eventually win it in walk-off fashion.

  • ASU started the season with seven straight wins, its best start since 2019.
  • The two-game series against No. 13 Oklahoma took place on February 26, 2026.

The players

Beckett Zavorek

A sophomore infielder for ASU who said the team was "a little bit slept on right now" before the series.

Landon Hairston

A sophomore outfielder for ASU who hit two home runs, including a 432-foot blast, in the Game 1 blowout win.

Derek Schaefer

A junior right-handed pitcher for ASU who normally excels in the ninth inning but struggled to protect a one-run lead in Game 2, leading to the walk-off loss.

Kole Klecker

A senior right-handed pitcher for ASU who provided stability on the mound in Game 1, allowing three runs over five innings as the offense erupted.

Willie Bloomquist

The head coach of the ASU baseball team, who praised Schaefer's calmness in the ninth inning prior to the Game 2 loss.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.