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Texas Tech pulls off stunning steal of home, takes lead in WCWS vs. UCLA

IMG_0985by: Griffin McVeigh06/01/25griffin_mcveigh
Women's College World Series at Devon Park
© SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

With Texas Tech and UCLA deadlocked at zero in the fifth inning, a run finally crossed home plate in quite unusual fashion. There was a steal at home from the Red Raiders, giving them a 1-0 lead. Just an incredible way to generate some offense for yourself when the bats are not finding too much success.

Makalya Garcia was standing on third base with two outs recorded. UCLA’s Taylor Tinsley had an opportunity to get out of the inning with a strike, being in a two-strike count. Instead, she missed outside and then chaos broke out.

UCLA catcher Alexis Ramirez did what she does after every pitch — throw the ball back to the pitcher. She did so, potentially, a little more casually than usual. Before Tinsley had the ball back in her glove, Garcia was diving for home.

She was ruled safe and Texas Tech got a much-valued run. A review even took place to make sure Garcia did not leave the base too early, with the call being confirmed. You can check out the full scene here.

Attempting this kind of play in any game would raise a few eyebrows. Doing so in a tied game in the Women’s College World Series makes the moment even more insane. A great moment for Garcia, who, if Texas Tech wins, will have something to remember for the rest of her life.

More on Texas Tech, run to Women’s College World Series

There is not too much history when it comes to Texas Tech softball. This is just the seventh-ever appearance in the NCAA Tournament, all of which previously resulted in regional losses. Getting through to a Super Regional was a big step for the Red Raiders.

Now, making the Women’s College World Series has the magical run continuing. Head coach Gerry Glasco is in his first season and helped Texas Tech win the Big 12 regular season and tournament championships. Some serious NIL money was infused into the program too, primarily for star pitcher NiJaree Canady.

Holding onto this 1-0 lead is going to be a tall task for Texas Tech. But if they can do so, just one more win will be required in order to advance to the WCWS championship series. Winning a national championship would put a bow on what has become a once-in-a-lifetime season in Lubbock. Massive moments still ahead of the Red Raiders during their time in Oklahoma City.