Fisher’s one-hitter lifts Razorbacks to sweep of Xavier
Sometimes baseball is loud. Sometimes it’s quiet.
On Sunday at Baum-Walker Stadium, it was quiet for Xavier and steady for Arkansas.
Colin Fisher stood on the mound and worked with calm focus. The left-hander threw a complete-game one-hit shutout as the Hogs beat the Musketeers 11-0 in eight innings.
The win finished a three-game sweep for the Razorbacks. It also pushed Arkansas to 6-1 on the season and extended a long run of home weekend success.
Fisher struck out a career-high 11 batters. He allowed just one hit, an infield single in the second inning.
After that, the Arkansas pitcher retired 20 straight hitters. There were no rallies. No late threats. Just clean innings.
By the end, the Hogs had what is believed to be the first eight-inning complete-game shutout and eight-inning one-hitter in program history.
While Fisher handled the mound, the Razorbacks handled the bats. They scored early and often.
Arkansas has now won five straight games. The program hasn’t lost or tied a non-conference weekend series at home since 2014.
Early Runs, Steady Control
The tone was set in the first inning. Camden Kozeal drove in a run with a single to get things started.
Reese Robinett followed with a two-run double. Just like that, the Razorbacks had a 3-0 lead.
In the second inning, Zack Stewart added to it. He hit his first home run as a Hog, the 45th of his college career.
Later in the inning, Ryder Helfrick ripped an RBI double. The lead grew to 5-0 before Xavier could settle in.
Meanwhile, Fisher kept pounding the strike zone. He worked ahead in counts and mixed his pitches well.
The Musketeers’ only hit came on a soft infield play. After that, every ball off the bat found a glove or a strikeout.
The Hogs’ defense stayed sharp behind their starter. There were no extra chances given away.
By the fourth inning, Arkansas was in control on both sides of the game.
Helfrick added more damage in that fourth inning. He launched his fourth home run of the season to extend the lead.
Power Late, Sweep Complete
Helfrick finished 2-for-4 with two extra-base hits and three RBI. He has been one of the Razorbacks’ early season standouts.
Kozeal has been just as steady. Through seven games, he entered Sunday slashing .385/.515/.962 with four home runs and a team-leading 10 RBI.
His hit total leads the team, and he shares the home run lead with Helfrick.
In the eighth inning, the Hogs made sure there would be no long finish.
Nolan Souza opened the frame with a single. Carter Rutenbar followed with a pinch-hit walk.
Kozeal stepped in again and delivered an RBI single to make it 8-0.
Then Kuhio Aloy came to the plate with runners on. He drove a three-run home run to center field.
The blast pushed the score to 11-0 and ended the game by run rule.
It was Aloy’s second game-winning hit in as many days. It also sealed the sweep in firm fashion.
Fisher returned to the mound for the eighth and closed it out himself. Eight innings. One hit. Eleven strikeouts.
There was no need for bullpen help. The left-hander handled it start to finish.
Arkansas has now won 33 straight non-conference weekend series at home. That kind of run doesn’t happen by chance.
It happens when pitching shows up and the lineup produces up and down the order.
On Sunday, the Razorbacks got both.
The Hogs now turn their attention to Arkansas State. The teams will meet in a doubleheader at Baum-Walker Stadium on Tuesday, with first pitch set for 3 p.m. on SEC Network+.
For now, Arkansas baseball can look back on a weekend that checked every box. Strong starting pitching. Timely hits. Clean defense.
Fisher’s outing will be the headline, and it should be. One-hit shutouts aren’t common in college baseball.
But the bigger story might be balance. The Razorbacks didn’t rely on one swing or one inning.
They scored in bunches early. They added insurance late. They played steady behind their ace.
Richmond, Acuff fuel Razorbacks past Missouri in SEC
Arkansas leaned on a pair of familiar names and timely runs to defeat Missouri 94-86 in an SEC game Saturday night at Bud Walton Arena.
Arkansas improved to 20-7 overall and 10-4 in the SEC, keeping pace near the top of the league standings with four regular-season games remaining.
Billy Richmond III led the Razorbacks with 21 points, attacking the basket and knocking down key shots when Missouri threatened to close the gap.
Freshman guard Darius Acuff Jr. added 20 points and went 11-of-13 from the free-throw line, steadying the Hogs during critical stretches.
Missouri, now 18-9 and 8-6 in conference play, received 26 points from Mark Mitchell and 22 from Trent Pierce, but couldn’t slow Arkansas’ late push.
The Tigers shot 55.4% from the field and kept things tight early, but Arkansas’ depth and transition scoring proved decisive.
After trailing in the first half, the Razorbacks flipped the momentum with a strong closing stretch before intermission.
Arkansas outscored Missouri 23-9 over the final minutes of the first half to take a 47-41 lead into the break, shifting control of the contest.
First-Half run changes tone
The early minutes didn’t belong to the Razorbacks. Missouri found rhythm on offense and briefly held the upper hand.
But Richmond sparked Arkansas with aggressive drives and confident jumpers, helping erase the deficit.
Acuff also found ways to score despite tough defensive pressure, earning trips to the line and converting.
By halftime, the Hogs had settled into their pace, moving the ball and attacking inside.
Missouri trimmed the margin to 57-56 midway through the second half, putting pressure back on the Razorbacks.
That’s when Arkansas responded again, answering with balanced scoring and improved defense.
The Razorbacks finished the night shooting 52.5% from the field and 44.4% from three-point range.
They also held a 17-2 advantage in fastbreak points, turning defense into offense whenever possible.
Arkansas forced 10 turnovers and converted them into 18 points, giving the home team extra scoring chances.
Ewin’s bounce-back performance
One of the biggest differences from earlier in the week was the play of Malique Ewin.
Ewin bounced back with 16 points on 6-of-11 shooting, adding eight rebounds and going a perfect 4-for-4 at the free-throw line.
He grabbed three offensive rebounds and recorded a key block in the second half.
His energy around the rim helped Arkansas maintain its edge inside.
Meleek Thomas contributed 14 points and eight rebounds, adding production on both ends of the court.
Trevon Brazile chipped in 12 points and six assists, helping the Razorbacks keep the offense flowing.
Arkansas also won the rebounding battle, limiting Missouri’s second-chance opportunities.
Late in the game, the Hogs extended the lead to 91-77, putting the result out of reach.
From there, Arkansas managed the clock and closed out the win at home.
Staying in SEC race
With the victory, Arkansas strengthened its standing in the conference race.
The Razorbacks have now shown a pattern of responding well after losses, maintaining focus during tight stretches of the schedule.
Missouri’s strong shooting kept the game competitive, but Arkansas’ balance made the difference.
Four players reached double figures, and contributions came from both starters and the bench.
The Hogs’ ability to adjust after a slow start stood out as a key factor.
Defensively, Arkansas tightened up in key possessions, forcing tough shots down the stretch.
Offensively, patience and ball movement created open looks inside and out.
As the regular season winds down, each game carries added weight in the SEC standings as teams start jockeying for postseason position
Arkansas returns to action this week with another important SEC matchup, looking to build on the balanced effort against Missouri.
Razorbacks outlast Xavier with late Game 2 surge
No. 8 Arkansas had to battle deep into the game Saturday, but the Razorbacks found a way to slip past Xavier in Game 2 at Baum-Walker Stadium.
The Hogs didn’t control things early. Xavier applied pressure right away and forced Arkansas to respond inning by inning.
Still, the Razorbacks stayed calm. They worked counts, put runners on base and waited for a key moment to swing the game.
Xavier’s lineup created early traffic and tested the Arkansas pitching staff. The visitors scratched across runs and made the home crowd uneasy.
The Hogs answered with small bursts. A run in the middle innings helped keep the score close and reminded everyone the game was far from over.
Arkansas kept putting balls in play. Even when outs were recorded, the Razorbacks made Xavier’s defense work for them.
Momentum Shifts in Middle Innings
By the middle innings, the Hogs began to settle in. Arkansas pitchers filled the strike zone and cut down on free passes.
A clean defensive inning helped spark energy in the dugout. The Razorbacks turned routine plays into quick outs and slowed Xavier’s rhythm.
At the plate, Arkansas finally found the swing it needed. A timely hit brought home a run and tightened the score.
The crowd at Baum-Walker responded. With runners on base, the Hogs sensed the chance to flip momentum.
Another key at-bat pushed Arkansas in front. The Razorbacks didn’t need a big inning, just the right contact at the right time.
Xavier didn’t go quietly. The visitors threatened again, forcing Arkansas to make pitches under pressure.
Bullpen Seals Series Edge
That’s when the bullpen stepped up. Arkansas relievers attacked hitters and avoided costly mistakes late in the game.
Strikeouts came in big spots. The Razorbacks stranded runners and kept Xavier from regaining control.
Defensively, the Hogs backed up their pitchers. Sharp infield work and steady outfield coverage prevented extra-base damage.
At the plate, Arkansas added just enough insurance to create breathing room. Smart base running and solid contact helped extend the lead.
The final inning carried tension. Xavier put runners on, but the Razorbacks stayed composed and finished the job.
When the last out was secured, Arkansas had locked down the win and taken control of the weekend series.
The Hogs showed they can win tight games with patience, pitching depth and timely hitting as the season continues at Baum-Walker Stadium.
Razorbacks host Missouri with SEC schedule winding down to seeding
Arkansas heads into a key SEC matchup Saturday against the Missouri Tigers with momentum they really can’t afford to give up winding down the season.
Arkansas is ranked No. 20 in the country with a 19-7 overall record and a 9-4 mark in league play, while Missouri sits at 18-8 overall and 8-5 in the SEC.
Saturday’s game comes after the Razorbacks’ recent road loss to Alabama.
Arkansas will be without wing Karter Knox this weekend after he had a knee procedure earlier this week, and Isaiah Sealy is listed as “doubtful” with a hip flexor.
Neither player participated in the mid-week game against the Crimson Tide.
Missouri enters the contest coming off a tight win over Vanderbilt in midweek. Mizzou held on for an 81-80 victory after a last-second shot rattled out at the buzzer.
The Tigers are just one game behind Arkansas in SEC standings and could jump into a tie for second place with an upset and favorable results elsewhere.
Here’s how to watch Saturday’s game and the betting lines from BetSaracen for fans interested in odds and prop plays.
How to watch and listen
- Who: No. 20 Arkansas Razorbacks (19-7, 9-4 SEC) vs. Missouri Tigers (18-8, 8-5 SEC)
- When: Saturday, February 21 at 3 p.m.
- Where: Bud Walton Arena — Fayetteville, Arkansas
- TV: ESPN/WatchESPN — Matt Schumacker and Richard Hendrix announcing
- Radio: Learfield Razorback Sports Network — Chuck Barrett and Matt Zimmerman on ESPN Arkansas 99.5 in Fayetteville, 95.3 in the River Valley, 96.3 in Hot Springs and 104.3 in Harrison-Mountain Home.
BetSaracen moneyline odds
These lines are subject to change after publication. All bets should be placed responsibly; you must be at least 21 to use BetSaracen and call 1-800-GAMBLER if you need help.
Moneyline
- Missouri: +425
- Arkansas: -550
Spread
- Missouri: +10.5 (-115)
- Arkansas: -10.5 (-105)
Total Points
- O/U: 160.5 (-105/-115)
Prop bets
Arkansas players also figure into some player prop combinations that are available on the BetSaracen app:
- Trevon Brazile OVER 23.5 points and rebounds combined (+145)
- Malique Ewin OVER 7.5 points and OVER 5.5 rebounds (+150)
- Nick Pringle OVER 2.5 FG attempts and OVER 3.5 FT attempts (+275)
- Darius Acuff Jr. OVER 25.5 points and OVER 3.5 rebounds (+350)
- DJ Wagner OVER 14.5 points, rebounds and assists combined (+300)
Razorbacks update and outlook
Arkansas lost its recent matchup with Alabama in a hard-fought game, and freshman Darius Acuff Jr. continues to be a focal point of the Razorbacks’ offense. While injuries have impacted Arkansas’ rotation, the Hogs are focused on maintaining their standing near the top of the SEC.
Missouri will try to use its SEC experience and recent win to challenge Arkansas in front of the home crowd. For fans and bettors alike, Saturday’s game offers several storylines with the Razorbacks seeking to build momentum and the Tigers hoping to tighten the SEC race.
How to watch Razorbacks against Xavier: Game 2 time, TV, odds
Arkansas is back at Baum-Walker Stadium for Game 2 of its weekend series against Xavier. The Razorbacks won the first game on Friday night and now look to take control of the series.
The Hogs beat Xavier 5-2 in the opener. Arkansas scored early and stayed in front the rest of the night. That fast start helped set the tone.
Camden Kozeal hit a three-run home run to give the Razorbacks a quick lead. The big swing came in front of a large home crowd. It gave Arkansas energy right away.
Xavier answered with a solo home run later in the game. Still, the Hogs added two more runs to stay ahead. They did enough on offense to protect the lead.
Arkansas is now 4-1 on the season. Xavier enters Game 2 with a 2-3 record. Both teams are still building rhythm early in the year.
Game 2 is set for Saturday at 1 p.m. in Fayetteville. Fans can watch the game on ESPN+. It will also air on the Razorback Sports Network on of ESPN Arkansas 95.3 in the River Valley, 96.3 in Hot Springs and 104.3 in Harrison-Mountain Home
Phil Elson and Bubba Carpenter will call the action on that will be streamed on HitThatLine.com in broadcast markets. That gives fans a chance to follow along even if they cannot watch on TV.
The Razorbacks will send left-handed pitcher Hunter Dietz to the mound. He started Friday’s game and will look to improve after a tough outing last weekend at the Shriner’s Children’s College Showdown.
Xavier plans to start right-hander Jack Nobe in Game 2. He will try to help the Musketeers even the series.
Betting odds and player props for Game 2
BetSaracen has released betting lines for Saturday’s matchup. Arkansas is listed as a strong favorite on the moneyline at -800. Xavier is set at +500.
The run line favors the Razorbacks by 4.5 runs at -145. Xavier is +4.5 at +115. The total runs line is set at 13.5, with both sides listed at -115.
There are also player prop bets available. Hunter Dietz has a line of over 12.5 batters faced. He also has a prop for under 1.5 earned runs allowed.
Kuhio Aloy has a prop for over 0.5 hits and over 0.5 runs scored. Ryder Helfrick and TJ Pompey each have props for over 0.5 hits and over 0.5 runs scored as well.
These odds can change before first pitch. BetSaracen reminds users they must be 21 or older to place wagers.
The Hogs will try to build off Friday’s win. Arkansas showed it can score early and pitch well enough to hold a lead.
Xavier had some bright spots in Game 1. Ashton Chronister threw three strong innings in relief. But the Musketeers could not close the gap late.
The Razorbacks hope their pitching staff can stay steady. They also want to keep getting timely hits like Kozeal’s early home run.
If Arkansas wins Saturday, it will secure the series before Sunday’s finale. Xavier will try to respond and force a rubber game.
For now, the focus is simple. The Hogs take the field at Baum-Walker Stadium at 1 p.m. CT, ready to compete in Game 2.
Razorbacks score early, hold on for 5-2 win over Xavier in home opener
Arkansas started fast in Friday’s home opener, using a first-inning outburst to set the tone in a 5-2 win over the Xavier Musketeers at Baum-Walker Stadium.
The largest home-opening crowd in program history of 10,388 was on hand as the Razorbacks exploded for three runs in their first turn at the plate.
Camden Kozeal provided the early spark, belting a three-run home run, his third of the season, to give the Razorbacks their first lead of the afternoon and the offense they’d need to secure the win.
Junior right-hander Gabe Gaeckle took the ball for the Hogs and handily navigated the early innings, holding Xavier in check through five frames.
He allowed four hits and one earned run while striking out seven, earning the victory.
Despite Arkansas being outhit nine to four, the Razorbacks capitalized on key moments and made the most of their opportunities with runners on base.
Xavier loaded the bases early in its first offensive chance, but a 1-3-6-2-5 double play turned the momentum right back to Arkansas and preserved the lead.
Middle innings support Arkansas’ lead
Arkansas padded its advantage in the fifth inning against Xavier’s bullpen when Nolan Souza lined a two-run double to extend the lead to 5-1.
Souza’s double came after he doubled earlier in the game, providing the Razorbacks with crucial extra-base hits in support of their early scoring surge.
Musketeers starter Ryan Piech settled in following Kozeal’s first-inning blast, striking out nine over four innings, though Arkansas still managed to tack on insurance runs.
Cole Gibler took over on the mound and worked four innings in relief. He surrendered a solo home run in the eighth inning but otherwise limited Xavier’s offense to help secure the win for Arkansas.
Gibler allowed five hits and one earned run while striking out two, and worked out of a bases-loaded situation in the seventh to maintain the Razorbacks’ cushion.
Strikeouts persist, but Hogs convert when it counts
Offensively, Arkansas struck out 12 times, a continuation of early-season swing-and-miss issues that showed up in its series at Globe Life Field.
Piech’s strikeouts accounted for nine of those showing his ability to generate whiffs when ahead in the count before reaching his 71-pitch limit.
Still, Arkansas made its contact count.
The Razorbacks were 2-for-5 with runners in scoring position, while Xavier went 0-for-8 despite outhitting Arkansas overall.
The efficiency in key situations helped offset the strikeouts and turned Kozeal’s early power and Souza’s extra-base hits into meaningful runs.
Xavier’s two runs both came on solo homers. One was off Gaeckle in the fifth inning and another against Gibler in the eighth, but the Musketeers were unable to string hits together when it mattered.
Arkansas and Xavier are set to continue their three-game set with Game 2 on Saturday at 1 p.m. on SEC Network+.
The Razorbacks will aim to build on the fast start in Friday’s opener as they begin an 18-game homestand at Baum-Walker Stadium.
For Arkansas, the formula in Game 1 was straightforward: jump ahead early, make the big pitch or defensive play, and let pitching carry the day.
Razorback legend Scottie Thurman on Darius Acuff, state of Hogs now
How current rules, NIL, could have made a difference in 1995 when it comes to players making quick jumps to NBA that don’t work out well.
