(Photo: Gabrielle Mercer/WCSN)
Arizona State (26-15) completed the sweep over New Mexico (30-14) with Sunday’s 1-0 walk-off win at Phoenix Muni
Zach Dixon earned the nod, but after some control issues and three walked batters, he was pulled in favor of Eder Erives in the third inning.
Erives dominated the New Mexico lineup, striking out seven and giving up just one hit in 6.1 innings of relief.
The Sun Devil offense was neutralized until the ninth inning, when Andrew Shaps singled to send home the game’s only run.
Arizona State is now 7-2 in its last nine games.
Player of the Game: Eder Erives
Taking over in the third inning and pitching for (innings) of middle relief is no easy task. Erives, however, took the opportunity and ran with it, stifling the New Mexico lineup to the tune of seven strikeouts and just one hit. The only blemish for Erives was the three walks, but that wasn’t enough to overshadow his dominance on the mound. He has now won five games this season, having lost just one.
Unsung Hero:
Andrew Shaps delivered the walk-off hit in the ninth inning, plating Colby Woodmansee to capture the 1-0 victory. Shaps finished the game 2-4 with the game’s only RBI.
You knew it was over when:
Shaps singled in the ninth, driving in Woodmansee for the walk-off victory. The pitchers kept this game in check.
Biggest Concern:
While Erives hurled a gem, the control between him and Dixon was a bit concerning. The duo combined to walk six batters, three of which were issued by Dixon in 2.2 innings of work.
What’s next?
The Sun Devils will stay home for a three-game conference series at Phoenix Muni this weekend against Oregon (19-17).
