WVU Baseball Claims Back-and-Forth Win With Ninth Inning Rally

Mountaineers score six runs in the ninth to defeat Texas Tech 12-8

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:53am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting a baseball game, with the players, field, and stadium broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes of color in the style of Pablo Picasso.West Virginia's dramatic ninth-inning rally against Texas Tech is captured in a cubist, geometric painting that deconstructs the action on the field.Lubbock Today

The West Virginia University baseball team opened their weekend series at Texas Tech with a thrilling 12-8 victory, rallying for six runs in the ninth inning to overcome the Red Raiders. The Mountaineers led 3-1 after three innings and 6-5 after seven, but Texas Tech fought back to tie the game each time before WVU's late heroics.

Why it matters

This win keeps West Virginia in contention in the competitive Big 12 Conference race, as they improve to 23-7 overall and 9-4 in league play. The Mountaineers' ability to battle back and score late runs showcases their offensive firepower and resilience, which will be crucial as they continue their push for a conference title and potential NCAA Tournament berth.

The details

West Virginia jumped out to an early 3-1 lead, with Tyrus Hall and the offense producing a two-run rally in the second inning. Texas Tech responded with a five-run fifth to take a 5-3 advantage, but the Mountaineers fought back with a three-run seventh to regain the lead at 6-5. The Red Raiders tied the game in the eighth, setting the stage for WVU's decisive six-run outburst in the ninth to secure the victory.

  • The game was played on Friday, April 11, 2026.
  • West Virginia scored six runs in the top of the ninth inning to take a 12-8 lead.

The players

Tyrus Hall

A West Virginia outfielder who had a key RBI single and scored a run in the second inning.

Dawson Montesa

The Mountaineers' starting pitcher who threw 130 pitches over seven innings, allowing 11 hits but helping to preserve the bullpen.

Gavin Kelly

A West Virginia infielder who recorded an RBI single in the seventh inning to help the Mountaineers regain the lead.

Sean Smith

A West Virginia infielder who hit a two-run double in the seventh inning to put the Mountaineers back on top.

Matt Ineich

A West Virginia player who cleared the bases with a double in the ninth inning to provide crucial insurance runs.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

West Virginia Baseball will continue their series against Texas Tech on Saturday, April 11 at 1 p.m.

The takeaway

This thrilling come-from-behind victory showcases the offensive firepower and resilience of the West Virginia baseball team, as they battle to remain in contention for the Big 12 Conference title and a potential NCAA Tournament berth. The Mountaineers' ability to rally late and secure the win on the road against a tough Texas Tech squad is an impressive feat that should boost their confidence going forward.