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Razorbacks Walk to Another Midweek Win Over Grambling

Arkansas takes advantage of erratic Tigers pitchers for run-rule victory

Daniel Shi

Arkansas Razorbacks designated hitter Kuhio Aloy trots to first base after drawing a walk against the Grambling Tigers at Baum-Walker Stadium.
Arkansas Razorbacks designated hitter Kuhio Aloy trots to first base after drawing a walk against the Grambling Tigers at Baum-Walker Stadium. / Andy Hodges-Hogs on SI Images
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FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Arkansas took advantage of 13 free passes (10 walks and three hit by pitches) to cruise to a 14-3 run-rule victory over Grambling Tuesday. It was the Razorbacks 13th straight midweek victory dating back to last season.

"Our team did a great job of kind of treating [this] just like a bunch of professionals," coach Dave Van Horn said. "Coming out and playing after the big, emotional weekend."

First baseman Rocco Peppi came into the game just 1-for-13, but opened the scoring with a two-run single to left in the first. He also added another RBI single in the third as part of a 2-for-3 day.

Righty Ben Bybee got the start on the mound for the Hogs, pitching three innings of one-run ball on 47 pitches with two strikeouts and two walks.

Designated Kuhio Aloy continued his hot start at the plate. He went 4-for-4 with all four balls coming off the bat at over 105 miles an hour, including a two-run double in the fourth. Through five games, he's hitting .562 with three homers.

"I don't really think much at the plate," Aloy said. "If the ball's in the zone, I'm more than likely to swing."

Arkansas truly blew the game open in the fifth, sending 10 men to the plate and scoring six runs. The inning was highlighted by back-to-back homers by catcher Ryder Helfrick and center fielder Justin Thomas Jr. out of the No. 8 and No. 9 spots of the order.

"I would say just sticking with it," Helfrick, who was 4-for-18 coming into the day, said. "Knowing that what I'm doing is correct. Today's a good day."

Four different relievers, Colin Fisher, Aiden Jimenez, Steele Eaves and Carson Wiggins each pitched one inning to close the game after the seventh via the 10-run rule.

Eaves made his college debut and picked up his first career strikeout.

Arkansas now welcomes Charlotte to Baum-Walker as part of a 10-game homestand. First pitch is scheduled for 3 p.m. Friday and will be streamed on SEC+.

HOGS FEED:

• Supporters of Arkansas Raffle Act speak on next steps after bill fails

• Hogs must heed Calipari's warning with Longhorns up next

• Big Ten travel draining Musselman, killing dream showdown with Calipari, Razorbacks

• Another Highly Rated In-State Star Could Leave Arkansas When Signed

• Van Horns' tinge of regret highlights value of two Razorbacks

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Daniel Shi
DANIEL SHI

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