OMAHA, Neb. – The roar of the Omaha crowd returned, and the UCLA Bruins delivered, opening their 2025 College World Series (CWS) campaign with a hard-fought 6-4 triumph over a resilient Murray State squad. In a highly anticipated matchup that saw the Bruins assert their championship pedigree early, this pivotal victory on Saturday, June 14th, at historic Charles Schwab Field marks a significant step forward for a UCLA team with its sights firmly set on ultimate glory.
From the first pitch, the Bruins displayed the disciplined offense and sharp pitching that has defined their season. Building a commanding 6-0 lead by the fourth inning, UCLA showcased a balanced attack that kept the Murray State Racers on their heels. Shortstop Roman Martin and second baseman AJ Salgado were instrumental in the early surge, each driving in two crucial runs. Salgado’s two-run double in the fourth inning, a blistering line drive into the gap, provided the Bruins with a comfortable cushion and sent a clear message to their CWS counterparts.
However, the beauty of college baseball, especially on the grand stage of the College World Series, lies in its unpredictable drama. Murray State, making a Cinderella run as a No. 4 regional seed and gracing the CWS for the very first time, refused to fold. The Racers, displaying the tenacity that brought them to Omaha, slowly but surely began to chip away at UCLA’s lead. Their gritty comeback attempt in the middle and late innings narrowed the deficit to a tense 6-4, keeping the passionate crowd on the edge of their seats.
On the mound for UCLA, starting pitcher Michael Barnett delivered a solid performance, navigating through 4.2 innings and allowing just one earned run. While Barnett set the tone, the Bruins’ coaching staff, led by the astute John Savage, opted for a strategic bullpen approach. Five relievers followed Barnett, each contributing to stifle the Racers’ burgeoning offense. The collective effort paid dividends, with Ian May ultimately earning the win for his effective outing. The ninth inning, as is often the case in high-stakes baseball, brought its own share of drama. But UCLA’s closer, Easton Hawk, was up to the task, shutting down Murray State to secure the save and seal the Bruins’ opening victory.
Offensively, Dean West was a constant threat at the top of the UCLA lineup, going 2-for-4 with two runs scored and an RBI. His ability to get on base and create scoring opportunities was vital in setting the table for the Bruins’ run production. The timely hitting, combined with disciplined plate appearances, underscored UCLA’s offensive prowess.
This win is more than just a notch in the win column; it represents UCLA’s first CWS victory since their memorable championship season in 2013. The significance of overcoming a determined Murray State team in their CWS debut cannot be understated. While the Racers leave the field with a loss, their courageous fight on such a grand stage earned them the respect of fans and opponents alike.
Looking ahead, the road to a national championship is long and arduous. UCLA (48-16) now advances to a highly anticipated winner’s bracket showdown on Monday night against the formidable No. 6 national seed LSU Tigers. This matchup promises to be a true test of strength and will undoubtedly be a highlight of the early CWS schedule. Meanwhile, Murray State (44-16) will face the daunting task of an elimination game on Monday, squaring off against No. 3 Arkansas, fighting to keep their dream season alive.
As Coach Savage aptly put it, while winning the first game is crucial, the College World Series is a marathon, not a sprint. The Bruins have cleared the initial hurdle, demonstrating their capability to compete at the highest level. With their sights firmly fixed on bringing another national title back to Westwood, UCLA’s journey in Omaha has officially begun with a resounding statement of intent. The action continues, and the excitement in Nebraska is just getting started.
Watch Game Highlights:
