Arizona State’s baseball squad moved one step closer to a potential championship after a decisive 10‑2 victory over Cincinnati in the quarterfinals of the 2026 Big 12 Tournament.
A record‑breaking night
The win was highlighted by a power surge from sophomore slugger Landon Hairston, who launched his 28th home run of the season, establishing a new single‑season record for the program and extending his on‑base streak to 38 consecutive games.
Joining Hairston in the offensive onslaught were Dominic Smaldino and Matt Polk, each adding a homer to the tally, while Polk finished the game with three hits and his fourth homer of the year.
On the mound, starter Kole Klecker worked four innings, surrendering just one run despite walking six batters and striking out five, setting the tone for a disciplined pitching performance.
Reliever Taylor Penn then shut down the opposition, delivering three scoreless innings, allowing only a single hit and fanning five, which helped preserve the lead.
The Sun Devils capitalized on four errors by Cincinnati, turning them into extra bases and contributing to a 12‑hit effort that also included three stolen bases and just five strikeouts.
With the victory secured, Arizona State now turns its attention to the semifinals, where they will meet West Virginia in a clash that could determine the tournament’s finalists.