COLUMBUS, OHIO — In a thrilling display of grit and determination, the **Minnesota Golden Gophers** emerged victorious over the **Ohio State Buckeyes**, clinching a 6-4 win on Sunday that marked a significant milestone for the program: their first sweep since the 2022 season and their first in the **Big Ten** since 2019.
**Joe Sperry**, a standout junior, earned the win from the bullpen, improving to 3-0 for the season. Sperry dazzled on the mound, tossing **4.1 shutout innings**, where he exhibited pinpoint control, striking out three while allowing just one walk and no hits. Teammate **Tyler Hemmesch** complemented Sperry’s performance with **2.1 shutout innings** of his own, yielding only two hits and adding three strikeouts. The duo proved instrumental in securing the victory for the Gophers, who now hold a record of 16-17 overall and 5-10 in conference play.
How It Unfolded
Set against the backdrop of a challenging game, the Golden Gophers found themselves in a **3-0 hole** as they entered the fourth inning. But the tides began to turn when Minnesota scored their first runs, pushing two across home plate to cut the deficit. The buzz grew in the crowd as anticipation mounted.
The Buckeyes answered back, extending their lead to 4-2. However, the resilient Gophers responded with a rally in the sixth inning, igniting the game with back-to-back doubles from **Drew Berkland** and **Jake Perry**, ultimately tying the score at **4-4**.
The Decisive Moments
With the game tied, the tension was palpable, but the Gophers surged ahead in the eighth inning. A critical two-out solo home run by **Weber Neels** off senior pitcher **Luke Carrell** propelled Minnesota into the lead at **5-4**. Keeping their momentum, the Gophers added another run an inning later, thanks to an **RBI single** from junior **Sam Hunt**, bringing the score to 6-4.
Despite Ohio State’s efforts to respond, the Gophers’ tight defense held strong, ensuring the score remained unchanged as the final whistle blew, solidifying a hard-fought victory.
Game Highlights
- Every Minnesota starter **reached base safely**, showcasing their offensive depth.
- **Two runs** in the sixth inning marked the Gophers’ highest-scoring moment in the game.
- In a testament to their batting prowess, Minnesota **out-hit** Ohio State 9-to-7.
- The Gophers’ pitchers limited the Buckeyes to a mere **1-for-7** (.143) with runners in scoring position, a critical stat that highlights their effectiveness on the mound.
- The Gophers drew **seven walks**, capitalizing on Ohio State’s pitching struggles.
- Neels led the offensive charge, finishing **1-for-4** with a home run and an RBI.
This thrilling game not only showcased the **Golden Gophers’** resilience and skill but also reignited hope and pride among fans. For more updates, stats, and behind-the-scenes content, stay connected with the Gophers at [**GopherSports.com**](http://gophersports.com) and follow the team on [**X**](https://x.com/GopherBaseball), [**Instagram**](https://www.instagram.com/mngopherbaseball/), and [**Facebook**](https://www.facebook.com/GopherBaseball). Go Gophers!
