MESA, Ariz. – UT Arlington's 2026 season came to a close Wednesday night with a 5-3 loss to Abilene Christian at Hohokam Stadium. The Mavericks finish the year at 19-32 overall.
Xavier Melendez gave UTA an early lead with a solo home run in the first inning, but Abilene Christian answered with two runs in the fifth and three more in the sixth to take control. The Wildcats' three-run sixth proved to be the difference, as UTA's offense was held quiet through the middle innings.
The Mavericks rallied in the ninth when Melendez connected for his second home run of the game, a two-run shot that scored
Hank Harp and pulled UTA within two. Harp finished 2-for-4 on the night, and
Caylon Dygert contributed a hit out of the lineup as a designated hitter. The rally came up short as Abilene Christian closed it out for the 5-3 final.
Kyle Winkler took the loss, dropping to 3-4 on the season.
PITCHING PROFILE
Kyle Winkler allowed four runs on nine hits in 5.1 innings.
Merek Sears gave up one run in 0.1 innings.
Hayes Melville tossed 2.1 scoreless innings.
-#BuckEm-
FOLLOW THE MAVS
For the latest news on UTA Baseball, visit UTAMavs.com or follow the Mavericks on social media. Follow the Mavericks on X @UTAMavsBSB, on Instagram @UTAMavsBSB, and on Facebook at Facebook.com/UTAMavsBSB.