Written and Audio Stories by Wilder Lewis

Oregon took the second game of the double header by a score of 5-1 Saturday thanks to consistent offense and big performances from Grinsell and the rest of the defense. 

Following yesterday’s rain cancellation the Ducks played a double header this afternoon vs the Utah Utes. The first game started off slow but quickly the runs piled on. In a 3-4 bottom of the 5th situation Jacob Walsh was able to launch a 2 run HR out to take back the lead. Another 2 run inning in the 6th for Oregon was all it took as the Ducks topped the Utes 7-4. 

Momentum carried through for the Ducks. In the first inning the defense for Oregon came up big getting 2 pickoffs on attempted steals. Then Grinsell was able to finish things off with a big K. Oregon then responded on offense in an inning that was split by a rain delay. Prior to the delay Oregon were able to load the bases on 2 outs. This was followed, once play resumed, by back-to-back past balls bringing in the first 2 runs of the game. 

Tempo changed very quickly though in the game as both teams went the next 3 innings without scoring. It was a big defensive battle throughout, where Oregon were able to get a few very clutch outs to end some innings. Grayson Grinsell played a big part in this, picking up 7 strikeouts in the first 5 innings while only giving up 1 walk and 5 hits. 

Oregon were able to break the streak though as in the 5th Jeffery Heard got a massive 1 out 2 RBI double to double the lead 4-0. However, the Utes were able to limit things to that as they got a couple big bases loaded outs. Utah then were able to score their first run of the game in the ensuing inning but couldn’t get anything more. Only for Oregon to come back in the B6 and take on another run thanks to an RBI single from Meggers. 

After the 6th Oregon was able to hold out. Brock Moore and the defense finished off the job giving the Ducks the 2-0 series lead. The final game of the series will be tomorrow at 12 in PK Park.