Razorbacks Secure Run-Rule Victory Over Sooners in Series Opener FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – A decisive offensive display in the second and sixth innings propelled No. 17 Arkansas to a 12-2 run-rule triumph over No. 24 Oklahoma in Friday’s series opener at Baum-Walker Stadium. The Razorbacks, who have now won five consecutive series openers, extended their dominance with a commanding performance, setting the stage for a potential SEC home series clinch in the coming days. The game, which marked the first of a two-game series, concluded with Arkansas securing the victory under the run rule, a rare but effective strategy that allowed the team to wrap up the contest without needing to complete the final innings. The Sooners struck first with a run in the top of the first inning, but the Razorbacks responded with a five-run outburst in the bottom of the frame. The surge began with Damian Ruiz’s two-run home run, which capped a powerful offensive surge that included five runs and six hits against Oklahoma starter LJ Mercurius. Mercurius, who was charged with five runs in just 1.1 innings, was quickly removed from the game, leaving the Sooners in a precarious position. Arkansas’ offensive explosion proved to be more than enough for their ace, Hunter Dietz, who delivered his first career complete game in the process. Dietz, the left-hander, pitched seven innings of two-run ball, striking out seven batters while allowing just one earned run. His performance lowered his season ERA to 3.22 across 72.2 innings and pushed his strikeout total to an SEC-leading 108. Opposing hitters managed only a .221 batting average against him this season, underscoring his effectiveness as a pitcher. The win marked Dietz’s eighth quality start of the year and improved his record to 7-2 on the season.#razorbacks #camden_kozeal #sooners #damian_ruiz #hunter_dietz
