Photos by Brigham Berthold
SALT LAKE CITY — Paul Estrada had a big night to help UVU beat the University of Utah 9-7 Wednesday night at Smith’s Ballpark. UVU (5-15) snapped a three-game losing streak and handed the Utes their sixth consecutive loss this season and fourth straight loss in the all-time series dating back to last season.
Estrada hit an RBI double in the second inning, part of a four-run inning from the Wolverines. The four runs gave UVU a one-run lead after falling behind 3-0 in the first inning. They would not trail again, thanks in part to another Estrada double — one that came with the bases-loaded to the opposite field in the sixth inning that scored three runs.
Ondrej Sebek got the start for the Wolverines and pitched four innings despite getting roughed in the early going. After a visit to the mound from pitching coach Dave Carter, Sebek calmed down and was able to navigate his way through four frames. He allowed no more hits after the first inning and finished the night with a no-decision.
Right-hander Jason Jourdan was the first guy of the bullpen and pitched two innings, allowing three runs, two of them earned, and earned his first win of the season.
Down 8-4 in the bottom of the seventh inning, Utah mounted a comeback, scoring three runs. The Utes were able to capitalize on a series of miscues by UVU including a hit by pitch, two extra-base hits and a fielding error on a pickoff move.
In the eighth inning UVU reclaimed an insurance run when first baseman Trevor Peterson shot a double off the left field wall and Zac Willis singled him in. That made the score 9-7 and the Wolverine relief staff was able to fend off a comeback to make it the final score.
Patrick Wolfe entered the game in the ninth inning with a two-run cushion and sat the Utes down in order to close the game and earn his fourth save on the season.
UVU will fly to Edinburg, Texas to open a three-game series against UT Rio Grande Valley Friday. First pitch is set for 6 p.m. MDT.
