After a disastrous weekend against Pac-12 opponent Arizona Wildcats, the Oregon Ducks(24-22, Pac-12 8-13) got a bounce back win against an upstart Portland Pilots(23-22) team that had beat them earlier in the season as they now turn their attention to instate rival Oregon State. With the score being tied for most of the game at 1-1, Sam Novitske laced a clutch, 2 RBI single in the bottom of the eighth to give the Ducks the lead. Gabe Matthews would tack on an insurance run that would lead to the final score of 4-1.

Starting on the mound was righty Brett Walker, but he would only pitch three innings as coach Horton went with a pitcher-by-committee approach, with six Ducks taking the mound. This strategy proved effective as the team only allowed one run and kept the pitchers on low pitch counts to have them ready for the weekend series against the Beavers.

In the lineup, there were some new faces and positions making an appearance. With five freshman starting the game and some regulars resting, Horton wanted to get some experience for the young guys. Making his first career start, catcher James Bell had a memorable game, despite an 0 for 2 effort. Regulars Sam Novitske and Spencer Steer were both playing new positions from where they’re usually at, with Novitske at the keystone and Steer manning the hot corner.

On Friday, the Ducks take on the Oregon State Beavers at PK Park at 7 pm for start of the Civil War.

Game Story – Kent Williams

Post Game Audio

Coach George Horton

2B Sam Novitske