By Kent Williams

After a rough weekend in Los Angeles, the Oregon Ducks(19-10) returned to Eugene looking to get back on track against the Ball State Cardinals(17-10). They came out victorious in game 1 of the 4-game series against the Cardinals on Friday evening, 13-7. In a game with plenty of ties and lead changes, ultimately it was the Ducks who finished on top after 9 innings.

The game was started by sophomore right RJ Gordon, who finished with 4.2 IP, 4 ER allowed, 3 strikeouts, and 3 walks. This was his 4th start of the season, and he was looking very strong for his first four innings. After running into some trouble in the 5th, he was replaced by Dylan Sabia, who would allow a few inherited runners to score and make it an interesting ballgame. Getting the win for the Ducks though would be Matt Dallas, who pitched 2 innings, only giving up 1 run.

The Ducks offense gave their pitchers plenty of support throughout the game, especially later in the game. After Oregon pitching gave up four runs in the 5th to take a 1-run lead, the Ducks offense responded with three runs of their own, capped off by a 2-run bomb by first baseman Jacob Walsh. Ball State would score a run apiece in the 6th and 7th, but Oregon put the game away with two runs of its own in the bottom half of the 7th, and then 5 more in the 8th. Freshman first baseman Jacob Walsh had a big game at the plate, going 1-3 with 3 RBI, a HR, and 2 walks. Second baseman Gavin Grant was also another notable performer, hitting 2-3 with 2 RBI.

The Ducks play again Saturday for a double header against Ball State, with game 1 first pitch scheduled for 12 pm at PK Park.

Game Story by Kent Williams