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Kentucky baseball sweeps Hofstra behind dominant pitching and timely offense

The Bat Cats finished off a 3 game series at home against Hofstra not dropping a single game. Up next is a trip to Richmond to play the EKU Colonels. Read all about it inside.
ByDrew Holbrook|
Jun 19, 2024; Omaha, NE, USA; A fan for the Kentucky Wildcats cheers action against the Florida Gators during the fourth inning at Charles Schwab Field Omaha. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-Imagn Images
Jun 19, 2024; Omaha, NE, USA; A fan for the Kentucky Wildcats cheers action against the Florida Gators during the fourth inning at Charles Schwab Field Omaha. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-Imagn Images | Steven Branscombe-Imagn Images

No. 23 Kentucky baseball continued its hot start to the 2024 season with a dominant series sweep over Hofstra at Kentucky Proud Park. The Wildcats showcased a mix of power hitting, stellar pitching, and aggressive baserunning to extend their winning streak to eight games. Here’s a full recap of the three-game set.

Game 1: Kentucky Holds Off Hofstra, 7-5

Despite an uncharacteristically sloppy defensive effort, Kentucky (7-1) found a way to grind out a victory in the series opener.

  • Offensive Stars: Luke Lawrence and Cole Hage combined for five hits, including three doubles and a home run, driving in four runs at the top of the order. Hage also teamed up with freshman Tyler Bell for a double steal of second and home.
  • Pitching Performance: Nic McCay battled through 4.1 innings with six strikeouts, while Evan Byers and Jackson Nove were lights out in relief. Nove struck out five in two innings without allowing a hit.
  • Closing Drama: Hofstra made a late push with three ninth-inning runs, but Simon Gregersen shut the door with a game-ending strikeout.

Game 2: Cleaver Flirts with Perfection in 6-1 Win

Kentucky secured the series with a masterful pitching performance from Ben Cleaver.

  • Pitching Dominance: Cleaver carried a perfect game into the sixth inning and finished with 7.1 scoreless frames, allowing just one hit.
  • Clutch Hitting: Carson Hansen led the offense with a three-RBI day, including a 400-foot home run in the sixth inning.
  • Small Ball & Speed: The Wildcats capitalized on stolen bases and situational hitting to generate offense despite shifting wind conditions.

Game 3: Hindle’s Grand Slam Seals the Sweep in 9-1 Victory

The Wildcats completed the sweep with an offensive explosion, headlined by freshman Ethan Hindle’s first career home run—a grand slam.

  • Record-Tying Performance: Kentucky tied a 15-year-old program record with eight stolen bases. First baseman Dylan Koontz was hit by a pitch three times, matching a single-game school record.
  • Patient Approach: UK drew seven walks and seven hit-by-pitches, capitalizing on free baserunners.
  • Strong Pitching Continues: Kentucky’s staff held Hofstra to just one run, completing an impressive weekend on the mound.

What’s Next?

Kentucky (9-1) now turns its attention to a midweek home-and-home series against Eastern Kentucky, starting Tuesday in Richmond, Ky. The Wildcats aim to keep their momentum rolling as they continue non-conference play.

Stay tuned to WBN for more Kentucky baseball coverage as the Wildcats gear up for SEC play!

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