ARLINGTON, Texas – On Saturday, February 14, the Vanderbilt Commodores defeated the Texas Tech Red Raiders 13-3 in eight innings during the 2026 Shriners Children’s College Showdown. The Commodores got standout performances from center fielder Braden Holcomb and starting pitcher Austin Nye.
World Baseball Network goes over why these two players were key in the Commodores’ first win of the 2026 college baseball season.
Holcomb tallies five RBIs against the Red Raiders
After one run between both teams in the first three innings, Holcomb got the scoring going with a two-run home run to left field.
This was the initial catalyst that ultimately led to an eight-run inning for Vanderbilt, which broke the game open.
Holcomb would get in on the fourth-inning action once again with a three-run double that made it an 8-1game. He finished the game with five RBIs.
Nye strikes out six Texas Tech hitters
Nye threw 72 total pitches in four innings against Texas Tech. However, he was productive over that stretch with six strikeouts.
The right-hander also allowed just two walks, two hits, and one unearned run.
Nye also worked out of a bases-loaded situation in the second inning, which showcased the gritty start he had.
Vanderbilt head coach Tim Corbin commented on the team defense and Nye’s start against Texas Tech.
“I thought it was big for us to get out of those bases-loaded situations,” Corbin told WBN. “We played good ground ball defense. Austin [Nye] was good towards the end of his outing. He pitched out of trouble, which was super important.”
Up Next for Vanderbilt
The Vanderbilt Commodores will play their final game of the 2026 Shriners Children’s College Showdown on Sunday, February 15.
They will face off against the Oklahoma State Cowboys at 11:30 a.m. EST.
WBN NCAA: https://worldbaseball.com/league/ncaa/
PHOTOS: AP | John Amis
