The mighty Texas Longhorns, ranked third in the nation, continued their undefeated streak in the 2026 season with a dominant 16-3 victory over the Houston Christian Huskies. This win not only kept their record spotless but also extended their perfect record against the Huskies in the all-time series. The game, played at UFCU Disch-Falk Field, marked the third consecutive midweek run-rule victory for head coach Jim Schlossnagle's team, a testament to their prowess.
But here's where it gets interesting...
Freshman right-hander Sam Cozart, making only his second career start, showcased his potential despite some command challenges. Cozart, known for his dominance rather than contact pitching, struck out six batters and didn't issue a single walk. His 6'6, 260-pound frame dominated the Huskies, allowing just a solo home run in the fourth inning. With a pitch count of 73 through five innings, Cozart's performance was a highlight, especially considering his ability to keep the Huskies off-balance.
As the game progressed, sophomore right-hander Jason Flores entered the game, but he faced a challenging situation. Batters were taking advantage of Flores' elevated outside pitches, slashing them to the opposite field. This trend continued as Flores struggled to find his rhythm.
Texas' defense, led by junior first baseman Casey Borba, had its moments. Borba couldn't corral a blooped ball down the line, putting runners on second and third with no outs. However, Flores and Borba worked together to limit the damage, with Flores trading a run for an out and Borba handling a crucial grounder to first base.
In the seventh inning, Flores found his groove, retiring Houston Christian in order. Texas' offense, however, was on fire. They scored runs in the first and second innings, with junior catcher Andrew Ermis contributing an RBI single. The Longhorns then exploded in the fourth inning, scoring six runs on a sacrifice fly and four consecutive singles, three of which came with two outs. By the end of the inning, Texas had amassed eight hits, including six singles and two doubles, and drawn five walks.
The hit parade continued in the fifth inning, with three straight singles producing an RBI for junior second baseman Ethan Mendoza. Junior catcher Carson Tinney added some excitement with a three-run homer into the visitor's bullpen in left field, extending Texas' lead to 12-1. Tinney's home run, traveling 355 feet, was a modest display of power by his standards.
As Houston Christian threatened to prolong the game with two runs in the top of the sixth inning, Texas responded with a strong bottom of the order. Borba and sophomore right fielder Jonah Williams drew walks, and Mendoza's single drove in another run, making it a 10-run game once again. Tinney's nine-pitch walk loaded the bases, and junior center fielder Aiden Robbins smashed a two-run single past the Houston Christian shortstop. Redshirt senior Temo Becerra then reached on an error by the shortstop, bringing in the Longhorns' 16th run of the game.
Texas finished the game with an impressive 14 hits from nine players, including four multi-hit performances. Mendoza led the way, going 3-for-5 with two RBI and three runs scored. Tinney and Borba also scored three runs each.
This weekend, Texas hosts USC Upstate in the final non-conference series, starting at 6:30 p.m. Central on Friday. Will the Longhorns continue their dominant streak? Find out as they take the field once more!
