Defensive lapses doom Cowboys in 12-2 run-rule loss to Arkansas

Missed opportunities, costly fifth inning sink Cowboys in season opener

Daniel Allen

Feb 14, 2026 - 5 min read

Oklahoma State sophomore second baseman Brock Thompson (1) walks back toward the visitor's dugout after striking out on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026 at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys struck out 15 times in a run-rule loss to Arkansas – Photo by Luke Tolbert

Defensive lapses doom Cowboys in 12-2 run-rule loss to Arkansas — Oklahoma State sophomore second baseman Brock Thompson (1) walks back toward the visitor's dugout after striking out on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026 at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys struck out 15 times in a run-rule loss to Arkansas – Photo by Luke Tolbert

ARLINGTON, Texas — Josh Holliday stood along the third base line, staring off into the distance.

The Oklahoma State coach, now in his 14th season at the helm, took a moment to reflect before addressing reporters adjacent to the visitor’s dugout. On the outside, he appeared calm and poised. But his facial expression illustrated everything following OSU’s 12-2 run-rule loss to No. 7 Arkansas on Friday at Globe Life Field to open play in the Shriners Children’s College Showdown.

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