UNC Baseball Tallies Nine Hits, Drops Opener to New Mexico

Friday, February 20

Albuquerque, NM

2 p.m. MST

University of Northern Colorado

0-5

New Mexico

5-0

Northern Colorado

New Mexico

New Mexico Athletics

2/20/2026 5:31:00 PM | Baseball

Box Score

By: Elian Soto, Assistant Director of Strategic Communications

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Northern Colorado baseball dropped game one of four 16-5 to New Mexico on the road as the Lobos used an early surge and a big fifth inning to pull away.

New Mexico jumped out in front with five runs in the opening frame and continued to apply pressure throughout the middle innings. A seven-run fifth created separation the Bears were unable to overcome.

Despite the final score, Northern Colorado tallied nine hits and showed competitiveness at the plate. Brett Barber and Jake Bullard each turned in 2-for-4 performances, helping set the tone offensively. Easton Bryant added a 2-for-3 effort with a run scored.

Jake Storey launched his first home run of the 2026 season to account for part of Northern Colorado's offensive production.

Behind the plate, Sam Pease reached base twice, going 1-for-2 with a run scored and a walk. The Bears were able to scratch across runs early but couldn't string together enough timely hits to keep pace with the Lobos offensive output.

On the mound, UNC battled through a challenging day against a New Mexico lineup that finished with 11 hits. The Lobos capitalized on key opportunities, including a pivotal home run during their seven-run fifth inning.

BY THE NUMBERS
Runs: NM 16, UNC 5
Hits: NM 11, UNC 9
Errors: UNC 1, NM 0

UP NEXT: The Bears turn their attention to a doubleheader tomorrow, with Game 1 set to begin at 12 p.m. MT.

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