New Mexico’s offense again paved the way for New Mexico as the Lobos snagged the series sweep against Wichita State on Sunday afternoon.
The offense was able to produce eight runs to support UNM’s starting pitcher James Harrington in his second win of the season as the Lobos garnered an 8-6 victory in the final game.
New Mexico (6-1) has facilitated at least six runs in each win this season. Over the weekend, UNM plated at least eight runs in each game during the three-game home opening stretch.
While the Lobos were forced to play small ball on Saturday to get the offense going, New Mexico struck quickly on Sunday.
A six-run second inning was jump-started by a leadoff homer from first baseman Jack Zoellner. The rally showcased 11 Lobo batters and set the tone for the remainder of the game.
Even though New Mexico’s offense was on point, UNM’s bullpen was again exposed. Head coach Ray Birmingham has said that the tail end of games has been a problem area early in the young season. He said after Saturday’s 8-4 win that he is looking for someone to step up into the vital relief role.
Right hander Christian Tripp had trouble stepping in after Harrington’s 5.2 innings pitched, only mustering two outs while allowing two hits, two walks and two earned runs during his brief outing.
The middle relief has not been a major trouble spot in New Mexico’s first two series. However, in each of UNM’s victories, the Lobos allowed late rallies from the Shockers (2-5).
The final three batters in particular were a cause for concern. In each contest, the Lobos were unable to blanket Wichita State.
Birmingham said the bullpen is lucky that the offense has been so potent, but he doesn’t want to rely on the offense to carry UNM all season.
Redshirt outfielder Reece Weber was another one of the Lobo hitters to make some noise at the plate, going 3-for-4 to improve his average to .333 on the season.
The season sweep comes one year after the Lobos were swept in Kansas during the 2015 campaign.
Get content from The Daily Lobo delivered to your inbox
UNM will stay in town as they host Dallas Baptist on Friday evening to start another three-game set.
Liam Cary-Eaves is the sports editor for the Daily Lobo. He covers volleyball, women’s basketball and baseball. He can be reached at sports@dailylobo.com or on Twitter @Liam_CE.
