The Georgia Bulldogs opened the 2026 College World Series in Omaha with a decisive 7‑1 victory over the Texas Longhorns, a performance that set the tone for what many expect to be a deep tournament run.
A Pitcher’s Masterclass
Right‑hander Joey Volchko delivered a complete game, striking out 15 batters while allowing just one run, showcasing the kind of dominance that has become his trademark.
Georgia’s offense struck early, plating four runs in the first inning as Texas’s defense unraveled, highlighted by Rylan Lujo’s two‑run homer that sparked the rally.
The momentum continued when Lujo added an RBI double in the seventh, and later, veteran infielder Kenny Ishikawa delivered a two‑run single that capped a six‑run burst, pushing the lead to 6‑0 before Texas managed a solitary run.
The 7‑1 final score not only secured the win but also tied the Bulldogs’ single‑season win record, underscoring a consistent effort that has seen them limit opponents to three runs or fewer in 31 games this year.
Georgia will next face Oklahoma on Monday at 7 p.m. ET, a rematch of a tournament that saw the Sooners blank Alabama 9‑0 in their opener, promising another high‑stakes showdown.