College Baseball Pitcher Facing Expulsion After Tackling Runner

A Texas college baseball game got a little too physical.

Apparently, they love football so much in Texas that baseball players are now tackling. At least that was the case in a game between North Central Texas College and Weatherford College. 

After first baseman Josh Phillips hit a home run to give NCTC the lead, Weatherford pitcher Owen Woodward decided to tackle him as he rounded third base.

In a game between NCTC & Weatherford,

Josh Phillips hits a go ahead home run and the weatherford pitcher LEVELS him while he’s rounding the bases...

Only in Texas folks pic.twitter.com/Bb5lpQ4t34

— Texas College Baseball (@TexasCollegeBSB) April 20, 2022

The incident didn’t lead to a brawl, even though the Lions’ players emptied their bench, but the game was suspended.

After the game, the Coyote’s released a statement condemning Woodward’s actions, saying the pitcher may get expelled as a result. Additionally, the Weatherford College police are investigating the incident.

“We are completely embarrassed by this incident, and we apologize to North Central Texas College and the fans of WC baseball,” Weatherford head coach Jeff Lightfoot said. “This type of behavior cannot be tolerated.”

A statement regarding today's incident at the WC baseball game. pic.twitter.com/QbKiaK63vs

— WC Coyote Athletics (@WCCoyotes) April 20, 2022

In NCTC’s statement, the program appreciated Weatherford College’s accountability. It is too soon to tell how Woodward will ultimately be disciplined, but it is likely he is done playing baseball for this year at least.