Arkansas pitcher Gage Wood led the Razorbacks to a big win on Monday with one of the best performances in Men's College World Series history, and he had a classy gesture toward an opposing player after the game.
Wood struck out a Men's College World Series record 19 hitters in a 3-0 Arkansas win over Murray State in Omaha, Neb. Murray State has been eliminated from the tournament, while Arkansas will play another elimination game on Tuesday night against the winner of Monday night's game between LSU and UCLA.
Following his dominant outing, Wood was seen going over to the Murray State dugout to talk with Racers shortstop Conner Cunningham. Wood and Cunningham both attended Batesville High School in Batesville, Ark., and Wood said the two work out together during the offseason.
Wood told ESPN that he wanted to give Cunningham some words of encouragement.
“I work out with that guy in the offseason and, you know, I didn’t expect to see him here. I get to play against him. ... I mean, I work out with that guy in the offseason," Wood said. "He’s a grinder. He works his tail off every day. He’s my scramble buddy, too. I’m looking forward to working with him every offseason going forward. He’s gonna get drafted one day. He’s a solid shortstop. I think he was Freshman of the Year for them.
“Of course, I’m gonna go over there and talk to my guy. I’m on cloud nine and their season ended, but I’m gonna go tell him I love him and great job and keep working.”
After throwing a no-hitter, Arkansas SP Gage Wood made to tip his cap to Murray State's Conner Cunningham pic.twitter.com/AT5sHHhwZf
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) June 16, 2025
As Wood alluded to, no one expected Murray State to reach the College World Series. It shocked the world in the NCAA Regionals to become just the fourth No. 4 regional seed since 1999 to reach Omaha.
Murray State's season ended in disappointing fashion, but it would be an understatement to say it exceeded expectations. It was nice to see Wood acknowledge that.
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