Final Score: Stanford 7, Oregon State 6 (Box)
Just needing one win to solidify a series win and all but ensure a berth into the NCAA tournament, the Beavers couldn't get a timely hit on offense or out on defense, and Stanford took advantage, winning 7-6.
The Beavers left fourteen men on base in the game in which both teams had a multitude of opportunities to win. The game featured four wild pitches, three past balls, and two errors... something you wouldn't expect when the Pac-10's two best defensive clubs play each other.
The Cardinal got on the board first, getting a single, a triple, and a double to lead off the game and score two quick runs in the first inning. In the second, Stefen Romero homered to cut Stanford's lead in half, then a Tommasini sacrifice fly and a Michael Miller double put the Beavers on top by the score of 3-2.
Stanford regained a one run lead in the bottom of the second with two more runs, and would take a two run lead with another run in the fourth.
Each team would get two runs in the seventh inning in what was a very wild frame that included errors, past balls, and wild pitches by both teams. Kahalehoe advanced to third base on a throwing error and scored on a past ball in the inning, then Tommasini was moved to third on a wild pitch and scored on a past ball. In the bottom half of the inning, Zach Jones singled with the bases loaded off of Ryan Gorton go put the Cardinal up by the score of 7-5. Mark Grbavac would then get the Beavers out of the inning without further damage.
The Beavers cut the lead to one with a run in the eight inning on yet another wild pitch by Stanford, but couldn't tie the game in the inning. Stanford closer Drew Storen would then set the Beavers down in order in the ninth to seal the victory for the Cardinal.
There's really no time to be frustrated about this game... the Beavers just need to come out and win tomorrow. That's all there is too it.
First pitch is scheduled for noon tomorrow. with Tyler Waldron scheduled to start against Brett Mooneyham.
--Jake (jake.buildingthedam@gmail.com)