Back to back: Watkins' homers leads AC to 5th run-rule win

Grant Watkins became the first Badger this season to hit back-to-back home runs to begin play on Saturday, leading the Badgers to their fifth run-rule victory of 2024.

Watkins' two-run homer in the first frame gave the Badgers a 2-0 lead out of the gates. The sophomore first baseman followed with a three-run shot over the right field fence, giving the Badgers an 8-0 advantage heading into the third inning.

A De Hoyos single, Bush single, and Avila single pushed the Badgers lead to 11-2 in the fourth inning. Gerardo Prado ended the game with a single an inning later, driving in Benavidez.

Bowles withstood an early scoring threat by Western Texas. After striking out the first batter of the game, the freshman walked three consecutive batters before the Badgers defense ended the frame via two fly outs.

Bowles struck out three consecutive batters in the second inning and walked only two additional batters the rest of the way.

The righty's nine strikeouts tied a career-high total through six appearances.