On Senior Day at the Sacramento State baseball complex, the Hornets delivered a commanding performance, downing Tarleton State 8-4 in front of a home crowd eager to celebrate their graduating class. The victory was highlighted by an explosive eight-run sixth inning that turned a modest lead into a comfortable margin, sealing the series win and underscoring the team's resilience late in the season.
The win lifted Sacramento State to a 26-30 overall record and a 10-8 mark in Western Athletic Conference play, tying them for third place with Utah Tech in the final league standings. While the result was a bright spot, it arrived after Tarleton State had already locked up the No. 1 tournament seed, rendering the game more about pride and momentum than postseason positioning.
Tournament outlook and upcoming matchups
The Hornets will now travel to face Abilene Christian in the opening round of the conference tournament on May 20. Awaiting the winner of that contest, Tarleton State is set to meet them again in the second round on May 21. The schedule sets up a potential rematch that could further influence the league’s postseason narrative.
Key contributors stepped up when it mattered most. Jace Jeremiah and Sam Harry each extended their team-high hitting streaks to eight games, while Ryan Ellis and Brett Ott continued to reach base consistently. Reliever Sean Carey earned the win, striking out five batters over three innings and preserving the lead after the sixth‑inning outburst.
Beyond the scoreboard, the victory served as a tribute to the seniors who have shaped the program’s recent years. Their final home appearance coincided with a collective effort that saw multiple players notch career‑high performances, hinting at a foundation that could carry the Hornets forward into the next season.