PHOENIX – Arizona State baseball has a stellar response after suffering its first loss of the season with an offensive explosion. ASU was headed by junior outfielders Nu’u Contrades and Kien Vu. The duo are the first two batters in the lineup and set the tone by getting on base early. Contrades and Vu combined for six hits, four RBIs, and two home runs in ASU’s 12-5 win over Oral Roberts.
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Arizona State infielder Nu’u Contrades (6) is tagged out by Ohio State catcher Mason Eckelman (16) at home during the fifth inning at Phoenix Municipal Stadium on Feb. 16, 2025. Syndication: Arizona Republic
The Sun Devils started the game doing something that they haven’t done this season, and that’s pitching a clean first inning. In the previous five games, ASU starters have allowed a run in the first inning, putting pressure on the bats to respond quickly. However, head coach Willie Bloomquist didn’t need to worry about that with senior right-hander Jack Martinez.
Martinez picked up the win in six innings of work, where he struck out six Golden Eagles’ batters and allowed five hits and five runs. The senior right-hander struggled late into his start, in the fourth and fifth innings, but the ASU offense had blown the game open by that point.
Arizona State outfielder Kien Vu (11) steals third base as the throw gets away from Ohio State infielder Tyler Pettorini (42) during the first inning at Phoenix Municipal Stadium on Feb. 16, 2025.Syndication: Arizona Republic
The Sun Devils were scoring runs in various ways, via homers, sac flies, and even with trickery as Contrades stole home. ASU’s batting lineup is so versatile with its speed and power that it makes it impossible for opposing pitchers to focus.
ASU’s third outfielder, junior Isaiah Jackson, joined Contrades and Vu with a stellar day at the plate. Jackson had two hits and two RBIs, including a right-field triple that opened the game for the Sun Devils. The Vail, Arizona native has been inconsistent at the plate during his first two years rocking the maroon and gold. However, Jackson continues his hot batting streak this season, recording eight hits and nearly a .300 batting average.
The series is on the line Sunday for ASU against Oral Roberts. Bloomquist and his squad look to make it back-to-back series wins to start the season before they head off for their first road trip against UCLA.
ASU blows game in 9th inning for first loss to Oral Roberts 8-7
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
