Top-ranked UCLA baseball sweeps Amegy Bank College Baseball Series

Bruins remain perfect against ranked opponents with impressive showing in Texas

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The top-ranked UCLA baseball team capped off an impressive sweep over three different top-25 programs in as many days at the Amegy Bank College Baseball Series in Arlington, Texas. The Bruins came from behind to defeat No. 4 Mississippi State 8-7 in 11 innings, after earlier wins over No. 20 Tennessee and No. 23 Texas A&M.

Why it matters

UCLA's dominant performance against several highly ranked opponents sends a strong message about the team's talent and potential this season. The Bruins have now proven they can win close games against top competition, boosting their case as a national title contender.

The details

In the final game against Mississippi State, UCLA trailed 5-3 entering the ninth inning but shortstop Roch Cholowsky hit a game-tying two-run homer to force extra innings. The Bruins then scored three runs in the 10th, highlighted by a two-run triple from pinch-hitter Aidan Espinoza, to pull ahead 8-5. UCLA reliever Easton Hawk picked up the win despite allowing a two-run homer in the 10th.

  • UCLA improved to 6-0 over ranked opponents this season.
  • Earlier this season, UCLA swept a three-game home series over then-No. 7 Texas Christian.

The players

Roch Cholowsky

UCLA shortstop and projected top draft pick who hit a game-tying two-run homer in the ninth inning against Mississippi State.

Aidan Espinoza

UCLA pinch-hitter who delivered a two-run triple in the 10th inning to give the Bruins the lead against Mississippi State.

Easton Hawk

UCLA relief pitcher who picked up the win despite allowing a two-run homer in the 10th inning.

Will Gasparino

UCLA center fielder who was named Most Outstanding Player of the Amegy Bank College Baseball Series after going 5-for-11 with four homers and seven RBIs over the three games.

Michael Barnett

UCLA senior right-handed starting pitcher who is 3-0 with a 1.80 ERA and a .128 opponent batting average over 15 innings.

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What’s next

The Bruins are back home at Jackie Robinson Stadium briefly for a Tuesday night contest against Cal State Fullerton before opening Big Ten play with a three-game set at Ohio State beginning Friday.

The takeaway

UCLA's dominant performance against several highly ranked opponents in the Amegy Bank College Baseball Series has solidified their status as a national title contender this season. The Bruins' ability to come from behind and win close games against top competition shows the depth and resilience of this talented team.