Hattiesburg, MS. - In an intense showdown at Milton Wheeler Field, the Texas Wesleyan Baseball team emerged victorious over Union in the NAIA Opening Round Tournament. Texas Wesleyan (37-15) rebounded strongly after losing in the opening game and clinched an 11-8 win over Union (30-19-1), moving forward in the tournament.

Texas Wesleyan took an early lead in the first inning when Jonathan Pena singled down the first-base line, driving in Brandon Rincones. The team extended their advantage in the third inning, capitalizing on a throwing error by Union, resulting in multiple unearned runs. The offensive onslaught continued as Texas Wesleyan scored seven runs in the third inning alone, increasing their lead to 8-0. Logan Silvertooth, Grayson Barrett and Kevin Santiago were among the contributors during the rally.

However, Union refused to back down and mounted a comeback in the fifth inning. Colton Stegman scored on a double play, followed by Loga Romasanta's RBI single. A. Mendoza then stepped up to the plate and smashed a two-run homer, narrowing the deficit to 8-4. Texas Wesleyan's Jose Sosa retaliated in the sixth inning with a powerful home run, expanding the lead to 9-4.

Union continued to battle and scored runs in the seventh and eighth innings, with Sammy Serrano and Romasanta making key contributions. However, Texas Wesleyan's Barrett responded in the seventh inning with a single that brought TJ Tomlinson home, maintaining a 10-6 advantage.

In the final inning, Union's David Mitchell's sacrifice fly drove in Luke Powell, reducing the gap to 10-7. A wild pitch allowed Powell to score another run for Union, intensifying the contest. Nonetheless, Texas Wesleyan's pitching held firm, preventing any further Union comeback. With a final score of 11-8, Texas Wesleyan secured the victory and advanced in the tournament.

Texas Wesleyan's Justin Ward earned the win on the mound, improving his record to 2-0, while Ethan Warren took the loss for Union, dropping to 8-5. David Theriot registered his seventh save of the season. The game showcased impressive offensive performances, with both teams displaying their prowess at the plate.

The Texas Wesleyan baseball team's resilience and offensive firepower propelled them to victory in the NAIA Opening Round Tournament. With this win, they advance further in the tournament, keeping their championship dreams alive. The team will undoubtedly carry this momentum forward as they strive to claim the ultimate prize in NAIA baseball.