OKLAHOMA CITY — Kansas State's Cinderella run through the Big 12 Tournament came to a difficult end Saturday night from Bricktown Ballpark, falling to TCU 17-7 in the semifinal round.
The Wildcats struck first with a run in the top of the opening frame, but the Horned Frogs answered with seven in the bottom half.
Kansas State would string together a bit of a comeback, getting to within 10-7 heading into the bottom of the eighth inning, but again, the big bats of TCU would answer, scoring seven more and ending the game in a run rule.
Following the game, K-State Head Coach Pete Hughes advocated for his team's NCAA Tournament resume, citing its record against top-tier conference teams, its deep pitching staff, and its high-powered offense all as reasons for a regional appearance.
"The past 10 days, arguably, we're playing better than anyone in the country, so that's how you want to finish your season, heading into the postseason," said Hughes.
The Wildcats record sits at 34-24 as it awaits its fate Monday, but with three victories against #5 Texas Tech and three more against #15 TCU.
"I've been the coach of at-large teams before," said Hughes. "This is an at-large team. The only thing that's missing is the historical, brand name in college baseball. If we had a historical, brand name across our chest, there wouldn't even be a conversation, there wouldn't even be a doubt."
The Wildcats will find out their fate on Monday morning at 11a.m..