Four homers lift Razorbacks past Cowboys in opener

ARLINGTON, Texas — Arkansas began the 2026 season with a complete performance, downing Oklahoma State 12-2 in a run-rule victory at Globe Life Field during the Shriners Children’s College Showdown.

The Razorbacks set the tone early behind catcher Ryder Helfrick, who delivered two home runs in the opener.

He finished with three RBIs, scored four times and added a stolen base in a productive night at the plate.

The Hogs wasted no time getting on the board. Nolan Souza opened the first inning with a double, and Helfrick followed by sending the first pitch he saw 428 feet to left-center field for a two-run homer.

Arkansas continued to pressure Oklahoma State pitching throughout the evening, collecting 13 hits and drawing four walks. Five players recorded multiple hits as the lineup created steady traffic.

The Razorbacks received a strong start from Gabe Gaeckle, who made his second consecutive Opening Day start. He struck out nine across four innings, allowing four hits and two runs, only one earned.

The Hogs maintained control even after Oklahoma State trimmed the lead to 3-2 in the fifth inning. Gaeckle reached his planned 75-pitch limit and exited with the advantage intact.

Arkansas answered quickly in the bottom half of the fifth, scoring three runs to stretch the margin. A two-out single by Kuhio Aloy helped extend the lead and restored momentum.

The Razorbacks kept building, blending patient at-bats with power swings that created separation on the scoreboard.

The Hogs extended the cushion further as the game moved into the later innings, positioning themselves for a run-rule finish.

Power on Display

Arkansas added to its lead in the seventh inning when Camden Kozeal connected on a two-run home run, pushing the score to 9-2 in front of 18,387 fans.

The Razorbacks weren’t done. In the eighth inning, Maika Niu launched a three-run homer that brought the total to 12-2 and ended the game under the 10-run rule.

The Hogs’ four home runs came from Helfrick twice, Kozeal and Niu, marking a powerful start to the season.

Arkansas demonstrated depth beyond the long ball, executing with runners in scoring position and capitalizing on opportunities with two outs.

The Razorbacks also received key relief work from Cole Gibler, who entered after Oklahoma State’s fifth-inning push.

The Hogs leaned on Gibler for stability, and he responded with 3.2 scoreless innings, allowing no hits while striking out six and issuing one walk.

Arkansas’ pitching staff combined for 15 strikeouts and limited free passes, preventing the Cowboys from generating sustained offense.

The Razorbacks supported their pitchers with solid defense and efficient innings late, preserving the early lead.

The Hogs closed the opener with a balanced effort that paired power hitting with controlled pitching.

Building Momentum

Arkansas improved its season-opening record under head coach Dave Van Horn and established early rhythm at the plate.

The Razorbacks showcased lineup depth, as production came from multiple spots rather than one stretch of the game.

The Hogs displayed composure after Oklahoma State narrowed the score, responding immediately with additional runs.

Arkansas’ ability to score in different innings reflected a steady offensive approach.

The Razorbacks combined early aggression with late patience, forcing Cowboy pitchers into difficult situations.

The Hogs followed a clear pitching plan, limiting Gaeckle’s workload and turning to reliable relief.

Arkansas now prepares to continue play at Globe Life Field with another ranked matchup awaiting.

The Razorbacks will look to carry forward the offensive momentum built in the opener.

The Hogs leave opening night with a 12-2 victory, four home runs and a strong start to the 2026 season.

Information from Arkansas Communications is included in this story.