USC’s push for an early edge completely backfired in a 14-1 blowout loss to Oregon State on Sunday night, setting up a high-stakes regional final rematch Monday afternoon.
Playing in front of a hostile sold-out crowd at Goss Stadium, the Trojans came out swinging. Brayden Dowd singled and Ethan Hedges smoked a 104 mph double off the wall, but aggressive base running immediately cost them. Dowd was waved home and tagged out at the plate after a rocket throw from star shortstop Aiva Arquette. Dowd left the game shortly after with apparent head trauma from the collision.
From there, it unraveled fast. Oregon State capitalized with small ball — laying down four bunts in one inning — and built a 6-1 lead. USC’s defense and pitching couldn’t slow the Beavers, who had already steamrolled Saint Mary’s 20-3 earlier in the day. The Beavers piled on, finishing with 17 hits and 14 runs.
USC’s best shot to stay alive came in the fifth, when they loaded the bases with no outs. But Oregon State’s arms silenced USC’s bats, striking out three straight hitters. In total, the Trojans struck out 16 times.
Now it’s down to one game. Monday’s winner advances to the Super Regional to face Florida State. After Sunday’s drubbing, USC will have to bounce back fast. Coach Andy Stankiewicz says his team has responded well after tough losses this season — and they’ll need to do it again.
USC Routed by Oregon State, Faces Win-or-Go-Home Rematch Monday
