Box Score TYLER, TEXAS - The University of Texas at Tyler baseball program secured a 7-1 victory over Texas A&M-International at Jorge Haynes Field in Laredo, Texas, on Friday. The Patriots offense tallied seven runs on eight hits, while the pitching staff limited their opponents to just one run on three hits.

Head coach Brent Porche picked up his 400th career win with the Patriots victory on Friday. He now has 253 total wins with the Patriots program and is 400-209 in his 13 career seasons.

In the second inning, the Patriots capitalized on opportunities to take the lead. Kyle Atkinson singled, followed by a walk to Ethan Menard. Both runners would advance on a steal, and then Atkinson crossed home plate on a wild pitch, giving the Patriots a 1-0 advantage. 

The sixth inning saw another key moment for the Patriots as Atkinson hit a solo home run, extending the lead to 2-0. The team maintained pressure on the opposing defense, eventually reaching the eighth inning with a 3-1 lead after capitalizing on an error, which allowed Justin Williams to score an unearned run.

In the ninth inning, the Patriots secured their victory with a four-run surge. Atkinson's single set the stage, and Cade Conway's double pushed runners into scoring position. Bryce Jewell delivered a crucial double to right center, driving in three runs. The inning concluded with the Patriots leading 7-1, a score they maintained through the final frame.

Overall, the Patriots recorded eight hits and took advantage of two errors by their opponents, leading to a decisive 7-1 win to open up the series.

Kyle Atkinson made a significant impact, scoring three runs and recording three hits, including a home run, while also stealing a base. Bryce Jewell led the team with three RBIs as he had a double and drawing a walk. 

R. Hector delivered a strong performance on the mound, pitching 7 innings and striking out 10 batters while allowing only 3 hits and 2 walks. He maintained a WHIP of 0.71 and earned the win with no earned runs credited to his name. G. Garza pitched 1 inning, issuing 1 walk and not allowing any hits, and Garrett Arredondo also contributed with 1 inning, striking out 1 and allowing 2 walks, while not surrendering any hits.

The Patriots will now be back in action on Saturday for a doubleheader that begins at 12 p.m.