Trailing in the bottom of the eighth, the No. 20 Western Kentucky Hilltoppers surged with a five-run rally to defeat Middle Tennessee 9-5 in their series opener. Kyle Hayes’ game-tying homer ignited the comeback at Nick Denes Field.
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Late rally pushes No. 20 Tops past MTSU 9-5
Photo by Bowling Green Daily News
Key Takeaways:
- Western Kentucky defeated Middle Tennessee 9-5 in the series opener.
- The Hilltoppers rallied with five runs in the bottom of the eighth inning.
- Kyle Hayes tied the game with a solo home run.
- The game was held at Nick Denes Field on Thursday night.
- WKU is ranked No. 20 nationally.
Late Rally Propels No. 20 Hilltoppers Over Middle Tennessee
On Thursday night at Nick Denes Field, the No. 20 Western Kentucky Hilltoppers showcased resilience and determination, rallying late to secure a 9-5 victory over Middle Tennessee in the opening game of their Conference USA baseball series.
Trailing 5-4 in the bottom of the eighth inning, the Hilltoppers faced a pivotal moment. Kyle Hayes stepped up to the plate and delivered a crucial solo home run, tying the game at 5-all and igniting the Western Kentucky offense.
“This team never quits,” Hayes said after the game. “We knew we had the ability to come back, and we showed that tonight.”
Following Hayes’ lead, the Hilltoppers continued their offensive surge, adding four more runs in the inning to establish a commanding lead. The five-run eighth inning proved too much for Middle Tennessee to overcome.
The victory not only gives Western Kentucky an early advantage in the series but also reinforces their national ranking. The Hilltoppers will look to maintain their momentum as the Conference USA series continues.
