UConn secured a 4-1 victory over Duke in the opening game of the Division I baseball tournament, thanks in part to a clutch two-run single by Ryan Hyde. In the sixth inning, with runners on second and third and two outs, Hyde sent a hit to right-center field that drove in two runs. Freshman Tyler Minick also contributed with a solo home run in the ninth inning to extend UConn’s lead.
Ian Cooke, the Big East pitcher of the year, delivered a solid performance on the mound allowing only one run on four hits in 5 2/3 innings to earn the win. Braden Quinn finished things off with 3 1/3 scoreless innings.
Duke’s Andrew Healy had a strong start, giving up just one run on four hits in four innings before the bullpen took over. Ryan Higgins, who entered the game in the sixth inning, faced trouble and was credited with the loss as UConn capitalized on the opportunity to take the lead.
This marked the first meeting between UConn and Duke in over three decades. UConn will move on to face Oklahoma vs Oral Roberts winner while Duke will play against loser of that game.
