The University of South Florida baseball team scored 16 runs on 18 hits to defeat Tulane in the opening game of their series, according to a May 8 announcement. The Bulls overcame an early deficit to secure a 16-6 victory and move ahead of Tulane in the American Conference standings.
This win is significant for South Florida as it puts them closer to winning their first series at Tulane since 2001. Nathan Earley tied the game with a three-run home run in the fourth inning and finished five for six with five RBIs, matching Jake Kulikowski for the team lead with four home runs. Jevin Relaford stole his 30th base of the year, tying him for seventh-most stolen bases in a single season at South Florida.
Ryan Pruitt contributed by going four for five with an RBI and a stolen base. Kaden Smith started on the mound, recording six strikeouts over four innings, while Edwin Alicea earned his sixth win after pitching four innings in relief. Will Allen closed out the game in the ninth inning.
The Bulls’ offensive output marked their second-highest run total this season, behind only their program-record performance against Georgia Southern. The last time they scored as many as 16 runs was during a run-rule win over Maine in 2024.
South Florida Athletics has produced Olympians representing multiple countries and has earned numerous conference championships and national titles, according to the official website. The athletics program also promotes community involvement and values inclusion and equity while participating in updated venues within its district.
Game two of this three-game series is scheduled for Saturday evening as South Florida looks to secure another victory.
