A thrilling baseball game unfolded on Wednesday evening at Crutcher Scott Field, where ACU Baseball engaged in a high-scoring encounter with Stephen F. Austin. Despite a valiant comeback attempt, the Wildcats ultimately succumbed to the Lumberjacks with a final score of 15-13. This match marked ACU's first since their 2021 showdown with Sam Houston, where both teams scored over 13 runs. The contest was characterized by explosive innings and standout performances from key players.

In the opening frame, Stephen F. Austin set the tone with an impressive nine-run inning, leveraging defensive errors and strategic hitting to secure an early lead. However, ACU demonstrated resilience by responding with a four-run third inning, driven significantly by Diego Cardenas' grand slam. Cardenas concluded the night as a pivotal figure for the Wildcats, contributing two home runs and six RBIs. Benjamin Greer also bolstered the team's efforts with a robust performance, recording three hits in four at-bats, including two doubles, a triple, and two RBIs. Additionally, Grant Watkins added three RBIs, highlighted by a solo home run in the seventh inning.

Pitching challenges were evident as Iain Campa absorbed the loss after a tough start. Nevertheless, relief pitchers Andrew Gaurdino and David Jeon delivered commendable performances, with Gaurdino pitching two scoreless innings and Jeon securing two strikeouts in the sixth. In the eighth inning, ACU narrowed the gap by scoring four runs, thanks again to Cardenas' second home run of the game. Unfortunately, SFA's closer, E. Balmaceda, secured the victory in the ninth inning.

Looking ahead, ACU is set to begin conference play this weekend against Grand Canyon University, currently boasting a record of 12-8. The series opener will commence on Friday at 6:05 p.m. CT, presenting an opportunity for the Wildcats to regroup and showcase their skills in another competitive matchup.