Judd Utermark talks walk-off home run and expresses appreciation for fans at Swayze
OXFORD, Miss. – Mike Bianco and the Diamond Rebels concluded their home opener earlier this evening in an extra-innings battle with Arkansas State. Fortunately, in the bottom of the 10th, left fielder Judd Utermark launched a curveball into orbit for a two-run home run to put the game away, 4-2, for Ole Miss.
Following the walk-off, Judd broke down his at-bat, crediting two of his teammates for his success.
“It was on the scouting report, credit to guys like Ryan Moerman and Hayden Federico, who picked up on some of that stuff in previous at-bats and relayed the information.”
– Utermark on his walk-off home run
JUDD UTERMARK. BALLGAME. 💣@JuddUtermark x #HottyToddy pic.twitter.com/GUoLgGPUzW
— Ole Miss Baseball (@OleMissBSB) February 18, 2025
On top of driving in the winning run in extras, Utermark also manufactured the first run of the game to give Ole Miss a 1-0 lead in the fourth inning. Recognizing a lefty pitcher with a slow delivery, coach Mike Clement told Judd he was capable of stealing home. Once he got the call, Utermark took off and beat the attempted tag with ease. Despite the play going under review, there was never a doubt in Judd’s mind that he was safe at home.
“I didn’t even have to look at the replay, I know my speed.”
– Utermark on stealing home
To wrap up his postgame interview, Utermark praised the Rebel fans for their support throughout the game, explaining how crucial it is for this year’s team to find wins in close game situations, just as they did tonight.
“These are the games that you live for. You start to look up, and it’s a 15-0 game, people start to leave, and it’s exam week for a lot of people. But I was proud of our fans and proud of our team for staying in the fight. You never know how big this win can be, and learning how to win in these situations is probably the most valuable thing to take away from it.”
– Utermark on the win over Arkansas State
Judd Utermark hits a walk-off homer to lift us to victory in our home opener!#HottyToddy pic.twitter.com/Ci6LIXqrk9
— Ole Miss Baseball (@OleMissBSB) February 18, 2025
Ole Miss baseball is officially 3-1 and will host Eastern Kentucky for their first home series of the 2025 season. Until then, be sure to stay tuned with The Rebel Walk for all of your Ole Miss sports needs.
