Pitching
The Oregon State Beavers made a statement in the Baton Rouge Regional on Saturday night, defeating the Sam Houston Bearkats 18-2 in a dominant performance. The Beavers were led by the power pitching of freshmen pitchers Brandon McDowell and Connor Turley, who combined for 11 strikeouts and allowed just two runs in the victory.
McDowell was the star of the game, throwing six innings and allowing just one run on four hits while striking out seven batters. He was in control from the start, retiring the first nine batters he faced and not allowing a hit until the fourth inning. Turley followed up with three innings of one-run ball, striking out four and allowing just one hit.
The Beavers’ offense was also on full display in the game, as they scored 18 runs on 15 hits. They were led by freshman infielder Jake Harvey, who went 3-for-5 with two doubles and three RBIs. Senior outfielder Tyler Malone also had a big game, going 2-for-4 with a double, two RBIs, and two runs scored.
Oregon State’s win was their first in the NCAA Tournament since 2013, and it was a statement win that showed they are a team to be reckoned with. With McDowell and Turley leading the way on the mound and Harvey and Malone leading the way at the plate, the Beavers are poised to make a deep run in the tournament.
The Beavers will now face off against the LSU Tigers in the Regional Final on Sunday afternoon. If they can pull off another win, they will advance to the Super Regionals and have a chance to make it to the College World Series. It should be an exciting game, and Oregon State will be looking to continue their impressive performance from Saturday night.
