via grfx.cstv.com
Maybe not as flashy as the last couple wins, but the Beavs again hit into double digits (13 hits leading to 9 runs) and today the defense was much sharper. Sam Gaviglio had a good game even with some rough spots, such as giving away a home run after being ahead in the count, and he seems to be putting together a nice leader-type of season now going to 3-0. Really he did what was needed and went a good five innings holding St. Mary's to 3 runs. And the bullpen was very good in closing this one out.
The offense was very good, and maybe not as put-them-away impressive as the last two games but the hits and runs came when needed. St. Mary's kept it close for awhile, but the Beavs just pulled away and made it sound easier than it probably was (a very good sign I think). Again, what was so impressive was the way in which the offense answered the opponent's scoring. It seemed like there were more left on base today that should have been brought home so something to work on I guess. But what a fantastic two-out performance with the first six OSU runs coming with two-outs.
Tommasini went three for three with three RBIs (only scoring two runs himself to keep him from the full set of threes!). Miller drove in two and Ortiz went 2 for 4 with one RBI. And again the entire batting order was strong and did the right things to keep putting the Beavs into scoring position, such as Casey's crucial walk to start the three run second inning.
"We got good production from the bottom part of our lineup, which has given us balance offensively as we are nearing the end of our homestand," Oregon State head coach Pat Casey said. "Sam Gaviglio had a good outing today and we got a good effort from our bullpen." (Retrieved from the OSU athletic site Gaviglio, Tommasini, Miller Combine To Hold Down Saint Mary's)
Tomorrow is Hawai'i with a start time at 4:00 and a great chance to go five straight wins into the conference opener this upcoming Friday in Eugene. The Beavs are looking really sharp right now and I'm hoping for a strong performance from Reyes tomorrow to give him some confidence going into Pac-10 play. Go Beavs!
Again, some box score stuff after the break.
To read the full box score and play-by-play go here.
