Massive 5th Inning Lifts No. 9 Angelo State Over No. 4 UT Tyler

SAN ANGELO, TX — A six-run fifth inning and a strong performance on the mound lifted No. 9 Angelo State to a 7-2 win over No. 4 UT Tyler on Friday afternoon at Foster Field in the 2026 home opener.

With the victory, the Rams improved to 3-1 overall and in Lone Star Conference play.

UT Tyler jumped out early with solo home runs in the first and fourth innings against Angelo State starter Josh Reed. Reed settled in to complete five innings, allowing two earned runs on three hits while striking out five.

The Rams’ offense broke through in the fifth after being held hitless through four innings. Chris Bernal opened the frame with an infield single, and pinch runner Connor DiGesualdo advanced into scoring position on a hit-and-run by Tate Greene. Christian Garnette followed with an RBI double to right-center to cut the deficit to one, and Greene later scored on a wild pitch to tie the game.

After a pitching change, Angelo State seized control with small ball. Hunter Holt and Blake Wilhoite each laid down bunts, setting the stage for RBI hits from Chase Pendley, Austin Beck and Payton Bush as the Rams plated six runs in the inning.

ASU added an insurance run in the eighth when Garrett Wallace and Greene hit back-to-back doubles.

Relievers Isaac Godard and Jude Stephens closed out the final four innings, combining to allow no hits while striking out four.

The Lone Star Conference series continues Saturday, Feb. 7, at Foster Field. First pitch is scheduled for 2 p.m.