BSB | Oregon Undone By The Long Ball In 5-4 Loss

The Oregon Ducks(22-14, 7-6 Pac-12) came into Thursday’s game looking to steal one away from the #2 ranked Stanford Cardinal(25-6, 11-2 Pac-12); instead they drop the first game of the series 5-4. Oregon might have had a chance to win the game had a Jonny DeLuca ground rule double in the first inning not hopped the fence, preventing the runner rounding third from scoring. That extra run would prove to be the difference in this game.

Starting pitcher Cullen Kafka(5.03 ERA) started out strong, only allowing 2 runs through his first five innings. However, as his start wore on he became obviously fatigued, losing almost 10 mph off his fastball, and in the sixth inning he would cough up 3 runs; 2 of which were from home runs. Once the bullpen came in for Kafka, it was lights out pitching, as no hits were allowed and only one player reached base for Stanford over the final 3.1 innings.

Offensively, Sam Novitske was the obvious star of the game, putting together his second career 4-hit game, going 4-5 with 2 runs scored. He also made some nice plays at the hot corner to make his performance even better. Spencer Steer went 2-4 with 2 RBI and his sixth home run of the season, while Gabe Matthews and Jonny DeLuca also chipped in two hits apiece.

Game Story – Kent Williams

Post Game Audio

Head Coach George Horton

Outfielder Jonny DeLuca