For the first time all year, Arizona State is looking to bounce back from a loss. A blown save from closer Will Koger undid a strong night of pitching from Ben Jacobs and his bullpen, and the explosive bats of the Sun Devils couldn't make one last stand, falling to Oral Roberts 8-7.
The good news is they get a chance to go right back out and play for revenge. Arizona State faces the Golden Eagles this afternoon with a chance to even the series, before potentially playing for the series win on Sunday.
It's a big moment for the Sun Devils, as this is their first real taste of adversity on the new year. In recent seasons, Arizona State has fallen into slumps here and there and generally been unable to beat the cream of the crop.
Today offers a great chance to prove that has changed. Oral Roberts remains undefeated, and the program has seen three consecutive trips to the regionals, so beating them is no small feat. The Sun Devils need a win today to restore confidence in themselves after such a strong start to the year.
How to watch Arizona State vs Oral Roberts
The Sun Devils and Golden Eagles throw out the first pitch at 1:00 PM MST at Phoenix Municipal Stadium in Phoenix, Arizona.
The game will air on ESPN+ (subscription required). Aiden Blanc will be on air for play-by-play with Nate Mills working as the color commentator.
Betting information
Arizona State enters this game as 2.5-point favorites despite the loss, according to DraftKings sportsbook.
The Sun Devils are -230 on the moneyline, while the Golden Eagles are +175.
The over/under on total runs is 14.5.