Texas Tech Baseball Stumbles in Arlington Tournament

Red Raiders go winless against SEC opponents, raising concerns about pitching and lineup decisions

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Texas Tech baseball team struggled mightily in the Shriners Children's College Showdown tournament in Arlington, Texas, going 0-3 against tough SEC opponents. Despite a late rally to take the lead against No. 5 Arkansas, the Red Raiders ultimately lost 6-5 in 11 innings, leaving them with more questions than answers heading into the rest of the season.

Why it matters

Texas Tech has missed the NCAA tournament the past two seasons, largely due to ineffective pitching. The poor performance in Arlington against high-caliber SEC teams raises concerns about whether the Red Raiders have addressed those pitching issues, and also highlights questions about the team's lineup construction and decision-making.

The details

In the three games, Texas Tech pitchers issued a combined 25 walks, including nine each to Oklahoma and Vanderbilt batters. The Red Raiders also gave up multiple home runs in each game, including a costly solo shot by Arkansas in the 9th inning that tied the game. Despite a late 4-run rally to take the lead against Arkansas, Tech ultimately lost 6-5 in 11 innings when the Razorbacks scored the winning run on a sacrifice fly.

  • The Shriners Children's College Showdown tournament took place from February 13-15, 2026.
  • Texas Tech lost to Oklahoma 10-3 and Vanderbilt 13-3 in the first two days of the tournament.
  • On February 15, Texas Tech rallied to take a 5-4 lead over No. 5 Arkansas in the 9th inning, but ultimately lost 6-5 in 11 innings.

The players

Tim Tadlock

The head coach of the Texas Tech baseball team.

Maika Niu

The center fielder for the Arkansas Razorbacks who delivered the game-winning sacrifice fly in the 11th inning against Texas Tech.

Cam Kozeal

The Arkansas Razorbacks player who hit a game-tying solo home run in the 9th inning against Texas Tech.

Steele Eaves

The winning pitcher for the Arkansas Razorbacks in their 6-5 victory over Texas Tech.

Kyeler Thompson

The Texas Tech player who had a pair of three-hit games and seven hits overall in the tournament.

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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.