In a thrilling contest at the Diamond Hogs Fall Classic held on October 6, 2023, Arkansas catcher Ryder Helfrick delivered a crucial seventh-inning RBI double that propelled his Black team to a 7-6 win over the Cardinal team. This decisive hit came with two outs, showcasing Helfrick’s ability to perform under pressure.
The game began with the Cardinal taking an early lead, scoring three runs in the first three innings. Reese Robinett made a significant impact, going 3-for-3 with four RBIs. He not only homered in the bottom of the first but also hit a key double in the sixth that tied the game at 6-6.
Despite the strong start from the Cardinal, the Black team rallied back. They found their rhythm in the fourth inning, scoring four runs against pitcher Parker Coil. Notable contributions included a two-run homer from Cam Kozeal, an RBI double from Helfrick, and an RBI single from Zack Stewart.
Head coach Dave Van Horn praised the competitive spirit displayed by both teams. “Everything we do… there is a winner and a loser out here, whether we are doing drills or whatever just to make it a little more interesting, a little more fun,” Van Horn said. He noted that the game was well-played for the first four innings before it became slightly less disciplined.
The Black team maintained their lead with a run in the fifth, driven in by Christian Tuner, who had an impressive performance, going 3-for-4, which included a solo home run, a double, and a single.
As the game progressed, the two teams utilized a total of 14 pitchers, with each team fielding seven pitchers. Hunter Deitz, who has faced injury challenges, recorded a notable pitch hitting 99 mph just before Robinett’s home run, highlighting the potential of the Arkansas pitching staff.
In the final moments, the Black team capitalized on a Cardinal error when Damon Ruiz reached base. Helfrick then stepped up to clinch the game with his decisive double, securing victory for the Black squad in what proved to be an exciting and competitive matchup.
With this victory, the Black team demonstrated resilience and teamwork, setting a positive tone for the remainder of the fall season. The performance of both teams provided valuable insights for coaching staff and players alike as they prepare for the upcoming challenges ahead.
