In a show of offensive prowess, Jackson Gray led No. 11 Kentucky to an 8-1 bounce-back victory against Texas A&M on Sunday afternoon at Kentucky Proud Park. Gray homered, hit a bases-loaded triple, and reached base four times, making him the star player of the match.
With this win, the Kentucky Wildcats have achieved an impressive 30-win milestone this season, boasting an overall record of 30-9 and an 11-7 record in Southeastern Conference play. The victory was particularly significant as it salvaged a weekend in which the team had been just one out from winning the series.
The Wildcats set the pace early in the game, scoring single runs in both the first and second innings. The game reached its turning point in the seventh inning when Gray blasted a base-clearing triple into the right field corner, effectively blowing the game open. In addition to Gray’s stellar performance, left-handed pitcher Evan Byers showcased incredible skill on the mound, working his way out of a tight spot. Outfielder Ryan Waldschmidt also contributed to the win with several highlight reel-worthy defensive plays in left field, neutralizing potential Aggie threats.
UK Coach Nick Mingione, currently in his seventh season at the helm, now owns a 206-138 career record. Mingione has a 92-45 record at Kentucky Proud Park, with a 49-50 record in the month of April under his leadership. This latest victory brings his record against Texas A&M to 5-7. The Wildcats have scored in 337 of 344 games under Coach Mingione and have consistently outscored their opponents 148-45 in the 5th through 7th innings.
Outfielder Jackson Gray had a remarkable game, going 3-for-3 with two runs, four RBI, a triple, a home run, and a walk. This was his first home run since his grand slam at Western Kentucky on March 28. Gray now has four triples this season, the most in a season for a UK player in the Nick Mingione era (seven seasons). He reached base every time he came to the plate and is currently on a season-high eight-game hit streak.
Outfielder Ryan Waldschmidt went 2-for-5 with a double and made two incredible catches in left field, one of which initiated a double play. Pitcher Evan Byers earned his second win of the season.
Next up, Kentucky will host Louisville on Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET. Fans can catch the radio call on the UK Sports Network (630 AM WLAP, locally) or watch the game on the SEC Network.
