Houston left-handed pitcher Chris Scinta (33) slings the ball during an NCAA college Baseball game, Friday, May 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

In an all-important series, Houston baseball demolished the Utah Utes, winning all three games to improve their record to 27-20 and extending their winning streak to a season-high five games. 

Their Big 12 record improved to 10-13, gaining ninth place in the Big 12 rankings to help them in their quest to advance to Arlington for the Big 12 Tournament.

UH comes from behind to win game one on a walk-off

The Cougars rose from the ashes of defeat to take home game one 5-4.

Down 4-2 in the bottom of the ninth inning, Houston rallied with three runs, capping it off with a walk-off single from redshirt outfielder Xavier Perez to give the Cougars their first walk-off win since May 7, 2024.

“I was just treating it like any other at-bat,” Perez said. “Just looking for something I can handle and I got something I could hit hard.”

UH scored two runs in the first two innings, thanks to a ground-out RBI from sophomore outfielder Trae Broussard and an RBI triple from junior infielder Cade Climie.

Utah would rally with four runs between the fifth and seventh innings to take a 4-2 lead.

The Cougars remained unfazed by the situation. In the bottom of the ninth, Climie hit a single, which allowed junior outfielder Brandon Bishop to score. Junior outfielder Jake Tatom then hit a ground ball that resulted in both him and Climie being out, but it allowed junior infielder Tyler Cox to score.

After a single and a walk, Perez hit a 1-1 pitch into right-center field, allowing junior catcher Kenneth Jimenez to score the winning run.

Senior pitcher Malachi Lott got the win to improve his record to 3-0. He pitched two innings, striking out two batters and allowing no hits or runs. Climie went 3-for-4 with 2 RBI.

 Houston takes game two behind strong pitching

The Cougars took game two and the series 7-3 with a strong performance from the pitching unit.

Junior pitcher Paul Schmitz and graduate pitcher Antoine Jean both combined for 12 strikeouts, with Schmitz and Jean striking out six each.

“It’s been a good duo with me and Paul,” Jean said. “When he leaves with the lead, I just wanna get him the win.”

The visitors struck first in the top of the first inning with two RBI singles. Perez would help get UH’s first run on the board with a fly out to center field that allowed Jimenez to reach home plate.

However, Utah would run into a wall. After recording two runs on three hits in the first, they could only muster up one more run, a solo home run in the top of the fourth inning, despite recording 12 more hits.

Even when they found themselves in good scoring positions, Houston’s pitching unit would shut them down.

This gave Houston’s offense the confidence to take control. After a scoreless second inning, the Cougars outran the Utes 6-1 the rest of the way to pick up the win.

Schmitz got the win to improve his record to 4-4. He pitched five innings, striking out six batters, allowing 10 hits and three runs.

Jean got his fourth save of the season, pitching four innings, striking out six batters, allowing 5 hits and no runs.

 UH sweeps up Utah’s bags to send them packing

Houston wrapped the series with a 10-4 win, marking their first Big 12 series sweep since March 2024.

“It feels great,” Cox said. “When we get into May and turn the calendar, and it gets down to the wire, it’s super important to come out strong. Just kinda play with our hair on fire and play Houston baseball.”

 Houston’s offense had a strong performance once again, as they recorded 13 hits and 10 runs for the day.

Perez demonstrated why he’s known as the “X-Factor.” In the fifth inning, with the Cougars leading 4-2, he crushed a pitch into left field for a 2-run home run, extending the lead to 6-2. From that point on, Houston never looked back.

Utah attempted to make a comeback in the latter innings, but the Cougars held firm to complete the sweep.

Graduate pitcher Andres Perez was awarded the win to improve his record to 2-1. He pitched two innings, striking out one batter, allowing only one hit and no runs.

Perez went 3-5 with two runs, two RBI and a home run, and Cox went 3-4 with three RBI.

Houston will look to keep rolling as they face Texas A&M on Tuesday, May 6 and then travel to Phoenix to take on Arizona State in the weekend series from May 9-11.

—
“Houston baseball dominates Utah in a clean sweep” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston left-handed pitcher Chris Scinta (33) slings the ball during an NCAA college Baseball game, Friday, May 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

In an all-important series, Houston baseball demolished the Utah Utes, winning all three games to improve their record to 27-20 and extending their winning streak to a season-high five games. 

Their Big 12 record improved to 10-13, gaining ninth place in the Big 12 rankings to help them in their quest to advance to Arlington for the Big 12 Tournament.

UH comes from behind to win game one on a walk-off

The Cougars rose from the ashes of defeat to take home game one 5-4.

Down 4-2 in the bottom of the ninth inning, Houston rallied with three runs, capping it off with a walk-off single from redshirt outfielder Xavier Perez to give the Cougars their first walk-off win since May 7, 2024.

“I was just treating it like any other at-bat,” Perez said. “Just looking for something I can handle and I got something I could hit hard.”

UH scored two runs in the first two innings, thanks to a ground-out RBI from sophomore outfielder Trae Broussard and an RBI triple from junior infielder Cade Climie.

Utah would rally with four runs between the fifth and seventh innings to take a 4-2 lead.

The Cougars remained unfazed by the situation. In the bottom of the ninth, Climie hit a single, which allowed junior outfielder Brandon Bishop to score. Junior outfielder Jake Tatom then hit a ground ball that resulted in both him and Climie being out, but it allowed junior infielder Tyler Cox to score.

After a single and a walk, Perez hit a 1-1 pitch into right-center field, allowing junior catcher Kenneth Jimenez to score the winning run.

Senior pitcher Malachi Lott got the win to improve his record to 3-0. He pitched two innings, striking out two batters and allowing no hits or runs. Climie went 3-for-4 with 2 RBI.

 Houston takes game two behind strong pitching

The Cougars took game two and the series 7-3 with a strong performance from the pitching unit.

Junior pitcher Paul Schmitz and graduate pitcher Antoine Jean both combined for 12 strikeouts, with Schmitz and Jean striking out six each.

“It’s been a good duo with me and Paul,” Jean said. “When he leaves with the lead, I just wanna get him the win.”

The visitors struck first in the top of the first inning with two RBI singles. Perez would help get UH’s first run on the board with a fly out to center field that allowed Jimenez to reach home plate.

However, Utah would run into a wall. After recording two runs on three hits in the first, they could only muster up one more run, a solo home run in the top of the fourth inning, despite recording 12 more hits.

Even when they found themselves in good scoring positions, Houston’s pitching unit would shut them down.

This gave Houston’s offense the confidence to take control. After a scoreless second inning, the Cougars outran the Utes 6-1 the rest of the way to pick up the win.

Schmitz got the win to improve his record to 4-4. He pitched five innings, striking out six batters, allowing 10 hits and three runs.

Jean got his fourth save of the season, pitching four innings, striking out six batters, allowing 5 hits and no runs.

 UH sweeps up Utah’s bags to send them packing

Houston wrapped the series with a 10-4 win, marking their first Big 12 series sweep since March 2024.

“It feels great,” Cox said. “When we get into May and turn the calendar, and it gets down to the wire, it’s super important to come out strong. Just kinda play with our hair on fire and play Houston baseball.”

 Houston’s offense had a strong performance once again, as they recorded 13 hits and 10 runs for the day.

Perez demonstrated why he’s known as the “X-Factor.” In the fifth inning, with the Cougars leading 4-2, he crushed a pitch into left field for a 2-run home run, extending the lead to 6-2. From that point on, Houston never looked back.

Utah attempted to make a comeback in the latter innings, but the Cougars held firm to complete the sweep.

Graduate pitcher Andres Perez was awarded the win to improve his record to 2-1. He pitched two innings, striking out one batter, allowing only one hit and no runs.

Perez went 3-5 with two runs, two RBI and a home run, and Cox went 3-4 with three RBI.

Houston will look to keep rolling as they face Texas A&M on Tuesday, May 6 and then travel to Phoenix to take on Arizona State in the weekend series from May 9-11.

—
“Houston baseball dominates Utah in a clean sweep” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston left-handed pitcher Chris Scinta (33) slings the ball during an NCAA college Baseball game, Friday, May 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

In an all-important series, Houston baseball demolished the Utah Utes, winning all three games to improve their record to 27-20 and extending their winning streak to a season-high five games. 

Their Big 12 record improved to 10-13, gaining ninth place in the Big 12 rankings to help them in their quest to advance to Arlington for the Big 12 Tournament.

UH comes from behind to win game one on a walk-off

The Cougars rose from the ashes of defeat to take home game one 5-4.

Down 4-2 in the bottom of the ninth inning, Houston rallied with three runs, capping it off with a walk-off single from redshirt outfielder Xavier Perez to give the Cougars their first walk-off win since May 7, 2024.

“I was just treating it like any other at-bat,” Perez said. “Just looking for something I can handle and I got something I could hit hard.”

UH scored two runs in the first two innings, thanks to a ground-out RBI from sophomore outfielder Trae Broussard and an RBI triple from junior infielder Cade Climie.

Utah would rally with four runs between the fifth and seventh innings to take a 4-2 lead.

The Cougars remained unfazed by the situation. In the bottom of the ninth, Climie hit a single, which allowed junior outfielder Brandon Bishop to score. Junior outfielder Jake Tatom then hit a ground ball that resulted in both him and Climie being out, but it allowed junior infielder Tyler Cox to score.

After a single and a walk, Perez hit a 1-1 pitch into right-center field, allowing junior catcher Kenneth Jimenez to score the winning run.

Senior pitcher Malachi Lott got the win to improve his record to 3-0. He pitched two innings, striking out two batters and allowing no hits or runs. Climie went 3-for-4 with 2 RBI.

 Houston takes game two behind strong pitching

The Cougars took game two and the series 7-3 with a strong performance from the pitching unit.

Junior pitcher Paul Schmitz and graduate pitcher Antoine Jean both combined for 12 strikeouts, with Schmitz and Jean striking out six each.

“It’s been a good duo with me and Paul,” Jean said. “When he leaves with the lead, I just wanna get him the win.”

The visitors struck first in the top of the first inning with two RBI singles. Perez would help get UH’s first run on the board with a fly out to center field that allowed Jimenez to reach home plate.

However, Utah would run into a wall. After recording two runs on three hits in the first, they could only muster up one more run, a solo home run in the top of the fourth inning, despite recording 12 more hits.

Even when they found themselves in good scoring positions, Houston’s pitching unit would shut them down.

This gave Houston’s offense the confidence to take control. After a scoreless second inning, the Cougars outran the Utes 6-1 the rest of the way to pick up the win.

Schmitz got the win to improve his record to 4-4. He pitched five innings, striking out six batters, allowing 10 hits and three runs.

Jean got his fourth save of the season, pitching four innings, striking out six batters, allowing 5 hits and no runs.

 UH sweeps up Utah’s bags to send them packing

Houston wrapped the series with a 10-4 win, marking their first Big 12 series sweep since March 2024.

“It feels great,” Cox said. “When we get into May and turn the calendar, and it gets down to the wire, it’s super important to come out strong. Just kinda play with our hair on fire and play Houston baseball.”

 Houston’s offense had a strong performance once again, as they recorded 13 hits and 10 runs for the day.

Perez demonstrated why he’s known as the “X-Factor.” In the fifth inning, with the Cougars leading 4-2, he crushed a pitch into left field for a 2-run home run, extending the lead to 6-2. From that point on, Houston never looked back.

Utah attempted to make a comeback in the latter innings, but the Cougars held firm to complete the sweep.

Graduate pitcher Andres Perez was awarded the win to improve his record to 2-1. He pitched two innings, striking out one batter, allowing only one hit and no runs.

Perez went 3-5 with two runs, two RBI and a home run, and Cox went 3-4 with three RBI.

Houston will look to keep rolling as they face Texas A&M on Tuesday, May 6 and then travel to Phoenix to take on Arizona State in the weekend series from May 9-11.

—
“Houston baseball dominates Utah in a clean sweep” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston left-handed pitcher Chris Scinta (33) slings the ball during an NCAA college Baseball game, Friday, May 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

In an all-important series, Houston baseball demolished the Utah Utes, winning all three games to improve their record to 27-20 and extending their winning streak to a season-high five games. 

Their Big 12 record improved to 10-13, gaining ninth place in the Big 12 rankings to help them in their quest to advance to Arlington for the Big 12 Tournament.

UH comes from behind to win game one on a walk-off

The Cougars rose from the ashes of defeat to take home game one 5-4.

Down 4-2 in the bottom of the ninth inning, Houston rallied with three runs, capping it off with a walk-off single from redshirt outfielder Xavier Perez to give the Cougars their first walk-off win since May 7, 2024.

“I was just treating it like any other at-bat,” Perez said. “Just looking for something I can handle and I got something I could hit hard.”

UH scored two runs in the first two innings, thanks to a ground-out RBI from sophomore outfielder Trae Broussard and an RBI triple from junior infielder Cade Climie.

Utah would rally with four runs between the fifth and seventh innings to take a 4-2 lead.

The Cougars remained unfazed by the situation. In the bottom of the ninth, Climie hit a single, which allowed junior outfielder Brandon Bishop to score. Junior outfielder Jake Tatom then hit a ground ball that resulted in both him and Climie being out, but it allowed junior infielder Tyler Cox to score.

After a single and a walk, Perez hit a 1-1 pitch into right-center field, allowing junior catcher Kenneth Jimenez to score the winning run.

Senior pitcher Malachi Lott got the win to improve his record to 3-0. He pitched two innings, striking out two batters and allowing no hits or runs. Climie went 3-for-4 with 2 RBI.

 Houston takes game two behind strong pitching

The Cougars took game two and the series 7-3 with a strong performance from the pitching unit.

Junior pitcher Paul Schmitz and graduate pitcher Antoine Jean both combined for 12 strikeouts, with Schmitz and Jean striking out six each.

“It’s been a good duo with me and Paul,” Jean said. “When he leaves with the lead, I just wanna get him the win.”

The visitors struck first in the top of the first inning with two RBI singles. Perez would help get UH’s first run on the board with a fly out to center field that allowed Jimenez to reach home plate.

However, Utah would run into a wall. After recording two runs on three hits in the first, they could only muster up one more run, a solo home run in the top of the fourth inning, despite recording 12 more hits.

Even when they found themselves in good scoring positions, Houston’s pitching unit would shut them down.

This gave Houston’s offense the confidence to take control. After a scoreless second inning, the Cougars outran the Utes 6-1 the rest of the way to pick up the win.

Schmitz got the win to improve his record to 4-4. He pitched five innings, striking out six batters, allowing 10 hits and three runs.

Jean got his fourth save of the season, pitching four innings, striking out six batters, allowing 5 hits and no runs.

 UH sweeps up Utah’s bags to send them packing

Houston wrapped the series with a 10-4 win, marking their first Big 12 series sweep since March 2024.

“It feels great,” Cox said. “When we get into May and turn the calendar, and it gets down to the wire, it’s super important to come out strong. Just kinda play with our hair on fire and play Houston baseball.”

 Houston’s offense had a strong performance once again, as they recorded 13 hits and 10 runs for the day.

Perez demonstrated why he’s known as the “X-Factor.” In the fifth inning, with the Cougars leading 4-2, he crushed a pitch into left field for a 2-run home run, extending the lead to 6-2. From that point on, Houston never looked back.

Utah attempted to make a comeback in the latter innings, but the Cougars held firm to complete the sweep.

Graduate pitcher Andres Perez was awarded the win to improve his record to 2-1. He pitched two innings, striking out one batter, allowing only one hit and no runs.

Perez went 3-5 with two runs, two RBI and a home run, and Cox went 3-4 with three RBI.

Houston will look to keep rolling as they face Texas A&M on Tuesday, May 6 and then travel to Phoenix to take on Arizona State in the weekend series from May 9-11.

—
“Houston baseball dominates Utah in a clean sweep” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston left-handed pitcher Chris Scinta (33) slings the ball during an NCAA college Baseball game, Friday, May 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

In an all-important series, Houston baseball demolished the Utah Utes, winning all three games to improve their record to 27-20 and extending their winning streak to a season-high five games. 

Their Big 12 record improved to 10-13, gaining ninth place in the Big 12 rankings to help them in their quest to advance to Arlington for the Big 12 Tournament.

UH comes from behind to win game one on a walk-off

The Cougars rose from the ashes of defeat to take home game one 5-4.

Down 4-2 in the bottom of the ninth inning, Houston rallied with three runs, capping it off with a walk-off single from redshirt outfielder Xavier Perez to give the Cougars their first walk-off win since May 7, 2024.

“I was just treating it like any other at-bat,” Perez said. “Just looking for something I can handle and I got something I could hit hard.”

UH scored two runs in the first two innings, thanks to a ground-out RBI from sophomore outfielder Trae Broussard and an RBI triple from junior infielder Cade Climie.

Utah would rally with four runs between the fifth and seventh innings to take a 4-2 lead.

The Cougars remained unfazed by the situation. In the bottom of the ninth, Climie hit a single, which allowed junior outfielder Brandon Bishop to score. Junior outfielder Jake Tatom then hit a ground ball that resulted in both him and Climie being out, but it allowed junior infielder Tyler Cox to score.

After a single and a walk, Perez hit a 1-1 pitch into right-center field, allowing junior catcher Kenneth Jimenez to score the winning run.

Senior pitcher Malachi Lott got the win to improve his record to 3-0. He pitched two innings, striking out two batters and allowing no hits or runs. Climie went 3-for-4 with 2 RBI.

 Houston takes game two behind strong pitching

The Cougars took game two and the series 7-3 with a strong performance from the pitching unit.

Junior pitcher Paul Schmitz and graduate pitcher Antoine Jean both combined for 12 strikeouts, with Schmitz and Jean striking out six each.

“It’s been a good duo with me and Paul,” Jean said. “When he leaves with the lead, I just wanna get him the win.”

The visitors struck first in the top of the first inning with two RBI singles. Perez would help get UH’s first run on the board with a fly out to center field that allowed Jimenez to reach home plate.

However, Utah would run into a wall. After recording two runs on three hits in the first, they could only muster up one more run, a solo home run in the top of the fourth inning, despite recording 12 more hits.

Even when they found themselves in good scoring positions, Houston’s pitching unit would shut them down.

This gave Houston’s offense the confidence to take control. After a scoreless second inning, the Cougars outran the Utes 6-1 the rest of the way to pick up the win.

Schmitz got the win to improve his record to 4-4. He pitched five innings, striking out six batters, allowing 10 hits and three runs.

Jean got his fourth save of the season, pitching four innings, striking out six batters, allowing 5 hits and no runs.

 UH sweeps up Utah’s bags to send them packing

Houston wrapped the series with a 10-4 win, marking their first Big 12 series sweep since March 2024.

“It feels great,” Cox said. “When we get into May and turn the calendar, and it gets down to the wire, it’s super important to come out strong. Just kinda play with our hair on fire and play Houston baseball.”

 Houston’s offense had a strong performance once again, as they recorded 13 hits and 10 runs for the day.

Perez demonstrated why he’s known as the “X-Factor.” In the fifth inning, with the Cougars leading 4-2, he crushed a pitch into left field for a 2-run home run, extending the lead to 6-2. From that point on, Houston never looked back.

Utah attempted to make a comeback in the latter innings, but the Cougars held firm to complete the sweep.

Graduate pitcher Andres Perez was awarded the win to improve his record to 2-1. He pitched two innings, striking out one batter, allowing only one hit and no runs.

Perez went 3-5 with two runs, two RBI and a home run, and Cox went 3-4 with three RBI.

Houston will look to keep rolling as they face Texas A&M on Tuesday, May 6 and then travel to Phoenix to take on Arizona State in the weekend series from May 9-11.

—
“Houston baseball dominates Utah in a clean sweep” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston left-handed pitcher Chris Scinta (33) slings the ball during an NCAA college Baseball game, Friday, May 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

In an all-important series, Houston baseball demolished the Utah Utes, winning all three games to improve their record to 27-20 and extending their winning streak to a season-high five games. 

Their Big 12 record improved to 10-13, gaining ninth place in the Big 12 rankings to help them in their quest to advance to Arlington for the Big 12 Tournament.

UH comes from behind to win game one on a walk-off

The Cougars rose from the ashes of defeat to take home game one 5-4.

Down 4-2 in the bottom of the ninth inning, Houston rallied with three runs, capping it off with a walk-off single from redshirt outfielder Xavier Perez to give the Cougars their first walk-off win since May 7, 2024.

“I was just treating it like any other at-bat,” Perez said. “Just looking for something I can handle and I got something I could hit hard.”

UH scored two runs in the first two innings, thanks to a ground-out RBI from sophomore outfielder Trae Broussard and an RBI triple from junior infielder Cade Climie.

Utah would rally with four runs between the fifth and seventh innings to take a 4-2 lead.

The Cougars remained unfazed by the situation. In the bottom of the ninth, Climie hit a single, which allowed junior outfielder Brandon Bishop to score. Junior outfielder Jake Tatom then hit a ground ball that resulted in both him and Climie being out, but it allowed junior infielder Tyler Cox to score.

After a single and a walk, Perez hit a 1-1 pitch into right-center field, allowing junior catcher Kenneth Jimenez to score the winning run.

Senior pitcher Malachi Lott got the win to improve his record to 3-0. He pitched two innings, striking out two batters and allowing no hits or runs. Climie went 3-for-4 with 2 RBI.

 Houston takes game two behind strong pitching

The Cougars took game two and the series 7-3 with a strong performance from the pitching unit.

Junior pitcher Paul Schmitz and graduate pitcher Antoine Jean both combined for 12 strikeouts, with Schmitz and Jean striking out six each.

“It’s been a good duo with me and Paul,” Jean said. “When he leaves with the lead, I just wanna get him the win.”

The visitors struck first in the top of the first inning with two RBI singles. Perez would help get UH’s first run on the board with a fly out to center field that allowed Jimenez to reach home plate.

However, Utah would run into a wall. After recording two runs on three hits in the first, they could only muster up one more run, a solo home run in the top of the fourth inning, despite recording 12 more hits.

Even when they found themselves in good scoring positions, Houston’s pitching unit would shut them down.

This gave Houston’s offense the confidence to take control. After a scoreless second inning, the Cougars outran the Utes 6-1 the rest of the way to pick up the win.

Schmitz got the win to improve his record to 4-4. He pitched five innings, striking out six batters, allowing 10 hits and three runs.

Jean got his fourth save of the season, pitching four innings, striking out six batters, allowing 5 hits and no runs.

 UH sweeps up Utah’s bags to send them packing

Houston wrapped the series with a 10-4 win, marking their first Big 12 series sweep since March 2024.

“It feels great,” Cox said. “When we get into May and turn the calendar, and it gets down to the wire, it’s super important to come out strong. Just kinda play with our hair on fire and play Houston baseball.”

 Houston’s offense had a strong performance once again, as they recorded 13 hits and 10 runs for the day.

Perez demonstrated why he’s known as the “X-Factor.” In the fifth inning, with the Cougars leading 4-2, he crushed a pitch into left field for a 2-run home run, extending the lead to 6-2. From that point on, Houston never looked back.

Utah attempted to make a comeback in the latter innings, but the Cougars held firm to complete the sweep.

Graduate pitcher Andres Perez was awarded the win to improve his record to 2-1. He pitched two innings, striking out one batter, allowing only one hit and no runs.

Perez went 3-5 with two runs, two RBI and a home run, and Cox went 3-4 with three RBI.

Houston will look to keep rolling as they face Texas A&M on Tuesday, May 6 and then travel to Phoenix to take on Arizona State in the weekend series from May 9-11.

—
“Houston baseball dominates Utah in a clean sweep” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston left-handed pitcher Chris Scinta (33) slings the ball during an NCAA college Baseball game, Friday, May 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

In an all-important series, Houston baseball demolished the Utah Utes, winning all three games to improve their record to 27-20 and extending their winning streak to a season-high five games. 

Their Big 12 record improved to 10-13, gaining ninth place in the Big 12 rankings to help them in their quest to advance to Arlington for the Big 12 Tournament.

UH comes from behind to win game one on a walk-off

The Cougars rose from the ashes of defeat to take home game one 5-4.

Down 4-2 in the bottom of the ninth inning, Houston rallied with three runs, capping it off with a walk-off single from redshirt outfielder Xavier Perez to give the Cougars their first walk-off win since May 7, 2024.

“I was just treating it like any other at-bat,” Perez said. “Just looking for something I can handle and I got something I could hit hard.”

UH scored two runs in the first two innings, thanks to a ground-out RBI from sophomore outfielder Trae Broussard and an RBI triple from junior infielder Cade Climie.

Utah would rally with four runs between the fifth and seventh innings to take a 4-2 lead.

The Cougars remained unfazed by the situation. In the bottom of the ninth, Climie hit a single, which allowed junior outfielder Brandon Bishop to score. Junior outfielder Jake Tatom then hit a ground ball that resulted in both him and Climie being out, but it allowed junior infielder Tyler Cox to score.

After a single and a walk, Perez hit a 1-1 pitch into right-center field, allowing junior catcher Kenneth Jimenez to score the winning run.

Senior pitcher Malachi Lott got the win to improve his record to 3-0. He pitched two innings, striking out two batters and allowing no hits or runs. Climie went 3-for-4 with 2 RBI.

 Houston takes game two behind strong pitching

The Cougars took game two and the series 7-3 with a strong performance from the pitching unit.

Junior pitcher Paul Schmitz and graduate pitcher Antoine Jean both combined for 12 strikeouts, with Schmitz and Jean striking out six each.

“It’s been a good duo with me and Paul,” Jean said. “When he leaves with the lead, I just wanna get him the win.”

The visitors struck first in the top of the first inning with two RBI singles. Perez would help get UH’s first run on the board with a fly out to center field that allowed Jimenez to reach home plate.

However, Utah would run into a wall. After recording two runs on three hits in the first, they could only muster up one more run, a solo home run in the top of the fourth inning, despite recording 12 more hits.

Even when they found themselves in good scoring positions, Houston’s pitching unit would shut them down.

This gave Houston’s offense the confidence to take control. After a scoreless second inning, the Cougars outran the Utes 6-1 the rest of the way to pick up the win.

Schmitz got the win to improve his record to 4-4. He pitched five innings, striking out six batters, allowing 10 hits and three runs.

Jean got his fourth save of the season, pitching four innings, striking out six batters, allowing 5 hits and no runs.

 UH sweeps up Utah’s bags to send them packing

Houston wrapped the series with a 10-4 win, marking their first Big 12 series sweep since March 2024.

“It feels great,” Cox said. “When we get into May and turn the calendar, and it gets down to the wire, it’s super important to come out strong. Just kinda play with our hair on fire and play Houston baseball.”

 Houston’s offense had a strong performance once again, as they recorded 13 hits and 10 runs for the day.

Perez demonstrated why he’s known as the “X-Factor.” In the fifth inning, with the Cougars leading 4-2, he crushed a pitch into left field for a 2-run home run, extending the lead to 6-2. From that point on, Houston never looked back.

Utah attempted to make a comeback in the latter innings, but the Cougars held firm to complete the sweep.

Graduate pitcher Andres Perez was awarded the win to improve his record to 2-1. He pitched two innings, striking out one batter, allowing only one hit and no runs.

Perez went 3-5 with two runs, two RBI and a home run, and Cox went 3-4 with three RBI.

Houston will look to keep rolling as they face Texas A&M on Tuesday, May 6 and then travel to Phoenix to take on Arizona State in the weekend series from May 9-11.

—
“Houston baseball dominates Utah in a clean sweep” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston left-handed pitcher Chris Scinta (33) slings the ball during an NCAA college Baseball game, Friday, May 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas. | Raphael Fernandez/The Cougar

In an all-important series, Houston baseball demolished the Utah Utes, winning all three games to improve their record to 27-20 and extending their winning streak to a season-high five games. 

Their Big 12 record improved to 10-13, gaining ninth place in the Big 12 rankings to help them in their quest to advance to Arlington for the Big 12 Tournament.

UH comes from behind to win game one on a walk-off

The Cougars rose from the ashes of defeat to take home game one 5-4.

Down 4-2 in the bottom of the ninth inning, Houston rallied with three runs, capping it off with a walk-off single from redshirt outfielder Xavier Perez to give the Cougars their first walk-off win since May 7, 2024.

“I was just treating it like any other at-bat,” Perez said. “Just looking for something I can handle and I got something I could hit hard.”

UH scored two runs in the first two innings, thanks to a ground-out RBI from sophomore outfielder Trae Broussard and an RBI triple from junior infielder Cade Climie.

Utah would rally with four runs between the fifth and seventh innings to take a 4-2 lead.

The Cougars remained unfazed by the situation. In the bottom of the ninth, Climie hit a single, which allowed junior outfielder Brandon Bishop to score. Junior outfielder Jake Tatom then hit a ground ball that resulted in both him and Climie being out, but it allowed junior infielder Tyler Cox to score.

After a single and a walk, Perez hit a 1-1 pitch into right-center field, allowing junior catcher Kenneth Jimenez to score the winning run.

Senior pitcher Malachi Lott got the win to improve his record to 3-0. He pitched two innings, striking out two batters and allowing no hits or runs. Climie went 3-for-4 with 2 RBI.

 Houston takes game two behind strong pitching

The Cougars took game two and the series 7-3 with a strong performance from the pitching unit.

Junior pitcher Paul Schmitz and graduate pitcher Antoine Jean both combined for 12 strikeouts, with Schmitz and Jean striking out six each.

“It’s been a good duo with me and Paul,” Jean said. “When he leaves with the lead, I just wanna get him the win.”

The visitors struck first in the top of the first inning with two RBI singles. Perez would help get UH’s first run on the board with a fly out to center field that allowed Jimenez to reach home plate.

However, Utah would run into a wall. After recording two runs on three hits in the first, they could only muster up one more run, a solo home run in the top of the fourth inning, despite recording 12 more hits.

Even when they found themselves in good scoring positions, Houston’s pitching unit would shut them down.

This gave Houston’s offense the confidence to take control. After a scoreless second inning, the Cougars outran the Utes 6-1 the rest of the way to pick up the win.

Schmitz got the win to improve his record to 4-4. He pitched five innings, striking out six batters, allowing 10 hits and three runs.

Jean got his fourth save of the season, pitching four innings, striking out six batters, allowing 5 hits and no runs.

 UH sweeps up Utah’s bags to send them packing

Houston wrapped the series with a 10-4 win, marking their first Big 12 series sweep since March 2024.

“It feels great,” Cox said. “When we get into May and turn the calendar, and it gets down to the wire, it’s super important to come out strong. Just kinda play with our hair on fire and play Houston baseball.”

 Houston’s offense had a strong performance once again, as they recorded 13 hits and 10 runs for the day.

Perez demonstrated why he’s known as the “X-Factor.” In the fifth inning, with the Cougars leading 4-2, he crushed a pitch into left field for a 2-run home run, extending the lead to 6-2. From that point on, Houston never looked back.

Utah attempted to make a comeback in the latter innings, but the Cougars held firm to complete the sweep.

Graduate pitcher Andres Perez was awarded the win to improve his record to 2-1. He pitched two innings, striking out one batter, allowing only one hit and no runs.

Perez went 3-5 with two runs, two RBI and a home run, and Cox went 3-4 with three RBI.

Houston will look to keep rolling as they face Texas A&M on Tuesday, May 6 and then travel to Phoenix to take on Arizona State in the weekend series from May 9-11.

—
“Houston baseball dominates Utah in a clean sweep” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston catcher Kenneth Jiminez (31) runs to first base during the fourth inning of an NCAA college baseball game om March 30, 2025, in Houston, Texas. |Karolina Navarro/The Cougar.

Houston baseball showed promise by winning the first game against TCU but ultimately faltered in the final two games of the series, losing to the Horned Frogs two games to one.

The Cougars are now 15-12 overall and 3-6 in conference play.

Houston holds on late to win game one

In a tight defensive battle, the Cougars fought hard against TCU, securing a 3-2 victory for their third consecutive win.

In the top of the ninth, Houston led 3-2 with two outs and the bases empty, but TCU managed to place runners on second and third.

Graduate pitcher Antoine Jean remained calm and collected, delivering the game-winning strikeout.

“I trusted number seven on the mound and I had full faith in him,” redshirt sophomore outfielder Xavier Perez said. “He’s been in these situations before.”

TCU struck first in the first inning with an RBI single from freshman two-way player Noah Franco. After a scoreless second inning, Houston answered in the bottom of the third with a two-RBI double from Perez, taking a 2-1 lead.

The Horned Frogs aimed to reclaim the lead in the fourth with the bases loaded, but Cougars’ junior pitcher Paul Schmitz struck out TCU sophomore infielder Jack Bell to end the threat.

Franco tied the game in the fifth with another RBI single, but Houston regained the lead in the seventh with an RBI double from junior infielder Coby DeJesus.

Despite TCU’s attempts to rally in the eighth and ninth, they fell short. Jean earned the win, improving to 3-0, having pitched 4.1 innings with four strikeouts, allowing only two hits and two walks.

Perez went 2-4 with two RBIs, and sophomore outfielder Tre Broussard stole his 17th base, maintaining an unblemished record on steals.

Horned Frogs demolish the Cougars 12-0 in second game

While game one was a triumph, game two was a devastating loss for the Cougars, as TCU shut them out 12-0.

“It’s definitely not a good feeling,” Broussard said.

Houston’s offense struggled, managing only three hits and striking out eight times. In contrast, TCU scored 12 runs on 11 hits and recorded 10 RBIs.

The Horned Frogs scored their first four runs in the first and second innings, including a two-run home run.

They then added eight more runs between the seventh and ninth innings, capped by a five-run ninth inning featuring a three-run home run.

TCU redshirt junior pitcher Caedmon Parker earned the win, improving to 2-0, pitching five innings with three strikeouts while allowing only two hits and three walks.

Freshman outfielder Sawyer Strosnider led TCU’s offense, going 4-5 with four runs, five RBIs and two home runs.

Cougars’ sophomore pitcher Richie Roman took the loss, falling to 0-4 after pitching five innings, striking out two batters, and allowing six hits, four runs, a home run and three walks.

UH trounced in series finale despite early lead

Despite an early lead, the Cougars suffered another defeat, losing game three and the series 16-5.

“It’s a hard sport. It’s hard to do good when pitching and hitting don’t connect,” senior infielder Aaron Lugo said.

Houston started strong in the first inning, scoring four runs on three hits, while freshman pitcher Kendall Hoffman struck out TCU’s first three batters.

However, TCU responded fiercely, outscoring the Cougars 16-1 for the remainder of the game.

After a scoreless first inning, the Horned Frogs erupted for 16 runs, with 16 hits and 14 RBIs. They scored in all but three innings, including four runs in both the sixth and ninth innings.

TCU freshman pitcher Mason Brassfield secured the win, improving to 3-1, pitching 1.1 innings with one strikeout and no hits allowed.

Junior pitcher Kole Klecker recorded his first save of the season. Senior infielder Cole Cramer and junior infielder Anthony Silva both had over four hits, with Silva hitting a grand slam in the ninth.

UH junior pitcher Chris Scinta took the loss, falling to 2-1, after pitching 1.1 innings and allowing three hits, two runs and one walk. Lugo went 3-5 with one run and one RBI.

The series loss brings the Cougars’ record to 15-12. They will seek to regain their composure this week, facing Texas A&M-Corpus Christi at home on April 2, followed by a weekend series against Baylor in Waco from April 4-6.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston baseball falls to TCU despite victory in opener” was originally posted on The Cougar

Houston catcher Kenneth Jiminez (31) runs to first base during the fourth inning of an NCAA college baseball game om March 30, 2025, in Houston, Texas. |Karolina Navarro/The Cougar.

Houston baseball showed promise by winning the first game against TCU but ultimately faltered in the final two games of the series, losing to the Horned Frogs two games to one.

The Cougars are now 15-12 overall and 3-6 in conference play.

Houston holds on late to win game one

In a tight defensive battle, the Cougars fought hard against TCU, securing a 3-2 victory for their third consecutive win.

In the top of the ninth, Houston led 3-2 with two outs and the bases empty, but TCU managed to place runners on second and third.

Graduate pitcher Antoine Jean remained calm and collected, delivering the game-winning strikeout.

“I trusted number seven on the mound and I had full faith in him,” redshirt sophomore outfielder Xavier Perez said. “He’s been in these situations before.”

TCU struck first in the first inning with an RBI single from freshman two-way player Noah Franco. After a scoreless second inning, Houston answered in the bottom of the third with a two-RBI double from Perez, taking a 2-1 lead.

The Horned Frogs aimed to reclaim the lead in the fourth with the bases loaded, but Cougars’ junior pitcher Paul Schmitz struck out TCU sophomore infielder Jack Bell to end the threat.

Franco tied the game in the fifth with another RBI single, but Houston regained the lead in the seventh with an RBI double from junior infielder Coby DeJesus.

Despite TCU’s attempts to rally in the eighth and ninth, they fell short. Jean earned the win, improving to 3-0, having pitched 4.1 innings with four strikeouts, allowing only two hits and two walks.

Perez went 2-4 with two RBIs, and sophomore outfielder Tre Broussard stole his 17th base, maintaining an unblemished record on steals.

Horned Frogs demolish the Cougars 12-0 in second game

While game one was a triumph, game two was a devastating loss for the Cougars, as TCU shut them out 12-0.

“It’s definitely not a good feeling,” Broussard said.

Houston’s offense struggled, managing only three hits and striking out eight times. In contrast, TCU scored 12 runs on 11 hits and recorded 10 RBIs.

The Horned Frogs scored their first four runs in the first and second innings, including a two-run home run.

They then added eight more runs between the seventh and ninth innings, capped by a five-run ninth inning featuring a three-run home run.

TCU redshirt junior pitcher Caedmon Parker earned the win, improving to 2-0, pitching five innings with three strikeouts while allowing only two hits and three walks.

Freshman outfielder Sawyer Strosnider led TCU’s offense, going 4-5 with four runs, five RBIs and two home runs.

Cougars’ sophomore pitcher Richie Roman took the loss, falling to 0-4 after pitching five innings, striking out two batters, and allowing six hits, four runs, a home run and three walks.

UH trounced in series finale despite early lead

Despite an early lead, the Cougars suffered another defeat, losing game three and the series 16-5.

“It’s a hard sport. It’s hard to do good when pitching and hitting don’t connect,” senior infielder Aaron Lugo said.

Houston started strong in the first inning, scoring four runs on three hits, while freshman pitcher Kendall Hoffman struck out TCU’s first three batters.

However, TCU responded fiercely, outscoring the Cougars 16-1 for the remainder of the game.

After a scoreless first inning, the Horned Frogs erupted for 16 runs, with 16 hits and 14 RBIs. They scored in all but three innings, including four runs in both the sixth and ninth innings.

TCU freshman pitcher Mason Brassfield secured the win, improving to 3-1, pitching 1.1 innings with one strikeout and no hits allowed.

Junior pitcher Kole Klecker recorded his first save of the season. Senior infielder Cole Cramer and junior infielder Anthony Silva both had over four hits, with Silva hitting a grand slam in the ninth.

UH junior pitcher Chris Scinta took the loss, falling to 2-1, after pitching 1.1 innings and allowing three hits, two runs and one walk. Lugo went 3-5 with one run and one RBI.

The series loss brings the Cougars’ record to 15-12. They will seek to regain their composure this week, facing Texas A&M-Corpus Christi at home on April 2, followed by a weekend series against Baylor in Waco from April 4-6.

sports@thedailycougar.com

—
“Houston baseball falls to TCU despite victory in opener” was originally posted on The Cougar