The No. 23 Kentucky Wildcats wasted no time setting the tone in their series opener against Wofford, erupting for four first-inning runs and cruising to a 12-2 run-rule victory on Friday night at Kentucky Proud Park. The win marked Kentucky’s 10th straight and improved their record to 11-1, while Wofford fell to 11-3.
Dylan Koontz provided the biggest offensive fireworks of the night, driving in four runs with a two-run opposite-field double in the first inning and a towering two-run homer in the sixth. Cole Hage added to the onslaught, finishing 2-for-2 with a home run, three RBI, three runs scored, and a pair of stolen bases. Hage reached base all four times he stepped to the plate, continuing his impressive start to the season.
On the mound, senior right-hander Nic McCay (3-0) wasn’t at his sharpest but still delivered a strong outing. He matched his season high with six innings pitched, allowing just one run on three infield singles while striking out three.
The Wildcats continued their recent dominance, securing their fifth run-rule victory in just 12 games. Over their last five contests, they have outscored opponents by a staggering 43-5 margin, showcasing both explosive offense and shutdown pitching.
Game Highlights:
- Kentucky plated four runs in the first inning to grab an early lead.
- Dylan Koontz went 2-for-4 with a double, a home run, two runs scored, and four RBI.
- Cole Hage finished 2-for-2 with a home run, three RBI, three runs scored, and two stolen bases.
- Nic McCay pitched six innings, allowing one run on three hits while striking out three.
- UK notched its fifth run-rule victory of the season.
- The Wildcats have now outscored their opponents 116-23 on the year.
Notable Stats & Streaks:
- Kentucky has won 10 straight games and is 11-1 on the season.
- UK has been hit by 13 pitches in its last three games.
- Kentucky has secured five run-rule victories and three shutouts in just 12 games.
- Head coach Nick Mingione is in his ninth season and owns a 273-167 career record.
- Freshman INF Tyler Bell and senior INF Patrick Herrera have both reached base safely in all 12 games this season.
Up Next:
The Wildcats will look to clinch the series when they take on Wofford in Game 2 at 1 p.m. today at Kentucky Proud Park.