UConn Baseball Falls Short in Series Finale Against ODU

Huskies come up one run short in 6-5 loss to Monarchs

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

UConn baseball came up just short of a series sweep against Old Dominion, falling 6-5 in the weekend finale in Norfolk, Virginia. Down three runs in the eighth inning, the Huskies rallied to score two and put the tying run in scoring position, but couldn't complete the comeback.

Why it matters

The loss prevented UConn from securing its first series sweep of the season, a milestone the team was hoping to achieve. The Huskies' up-and-down start to the year continues, as they look to build momentum heading into conference play.

The details

UConn starter Oliver Pudvar struggled, allowing four earned runs in three innings of work. The Huskies' offense was led by Chris Polemeni's first-inning two-run homer, but Old Dominion's top of the order did damage with a pair of solo shots and a three-run blast. UConn mounted a late rally in the eighth, scoring two runs, but couldn't push across the tying run.

  • The game was played on March 9, 2026.
  • UConn scored two runs in the top of the eighth inning to make it a 6-5 game.

The players

Oliver Pudvar

UConn's starting pitcher, who struggled in his fourth start of the season, allowing four earned runs in three innings.

Chris Polemeni

UConn outfielder who hit a two-run homer in the first inning to give the Huskies an early lead.

TJ Aiken

Old Dominion's center fielder, who hit a solo home run in the first inning and added an RBI single later in the game.

Maverick Stallings

Old Dominion's second baseman, who hit a three-run home run in the third inning to give the Monarchs the lead.

Kellen Davis

Old Dominion's closer, who recorded the final out to preserve the Monarchs' 6-5 victory.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We came up just short, but I'm proud of the fight our guys showed in the late innings to try and complete the comeback.”

— Jim Penders, UConn Head Coach

What’s next

UConn will return home on Tuesday to host Boston College at Elliot Ballpark, with first pitch scheduled for 3:05 p.m.

The takeaway

Despite the loss, UConn's late-game rally demonstrated the team's resilience and ability to fight back, which will be crucial as they look to build momentum and secure their first series sweep of the season.