IRVINE, Calif. – The Oregon State Beavers (15-5) look to continue their winning ways Saturday afternoon as they face the UC Irvine Anteaters (9-12) in the second game of a three-game series. First pitch is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. PT at Cicerone Field. Following a decisive 5-1 victory Friday night, Oregon State aims to build on a strong pitching performance and timely hitting against their Pac-12 Conference opponent. This Oregon State baseball matchup is crucial as the Beavers navigate a challenging early-season schedule.
Friday’s game saw a standout performance from Beaver hitters and pitchers alike. Adam Haight led the offensive charge, setting a career-high with four hits, including two doubles. Dax Whitney dominated on the mound, striking out 11 batters in 5 1/3 innings, allowing just four hits and one run. The Beavers’ pitching staff, consistently a strength, has been a key factor in their success this season, and they’ll look to replicate that dominance today.
Beavers’ Pitching Staff Continues to Impress
Saturday’s starter for Oregon State is left-handed pitcher Ethan Kleinschmit (2-2, 5.01 ERA). Kleinschmit has faced UC Irvine before, earning a win against them last season, scattering three runs on four hits over 5 1/3 innings and recording eight strikeouts. His performance will be critical in maintaining momentum for the Beavers. UC Irvine will counter with left-hander Ricky Ojeda (1-2, 4.63 ERA). The Beavers’ offense will need to adjust to Ojeda’s pitching style to continue their offensive production.
Oregon State’s starters have been particularly effective in March, boasting a 7-1 record with a 1.75 ERA across 11 games. They’ve accumulated 71 strikeouts in 51 1/3 innings, demonstrating their ability to control the game from the mound. The team’s overall ERA currently stands at 3.25, a testament to the depth and quality of the pitching staff. The Beavers currently rank fifth nationally with 258 strikeouts in 180 innings, averaging 12.97 strikeouts per nine innings – the third-highest average in the country.
Friday’s Victory Built on Offensive and Defensive Synergy
The Beavers’ 5-1 win on Friday wasn’t solely reliant on strong pitching. Oregon State’s offense capitalized on opportunities, scoring three runs in the fifth inning on singles from AJ Singer and Paul Vazquez, coupled with a well-executed squeeze bunt by Tyler Inge. Haight’s four-hit performance was a season-high for any Beaver player, and extended hitting streaks for both Bryce Hubbard (four games) and AJ Singer (four games) are providing a consistent spark to the lineup.
Defensively, Oregon State received strong support from Isaac Yeager and Wyatt Queen, who combined for eight strikeouts in 3 2/3 scoreless innings of relief. Queen earned his first save of the season, the first by a Beaver reliever other than Albert Roblez this year. The bullpen’s ability to shut down opposing offenses has been a key component of the team’s success.
Series History and Broadcast Information
Oregon State holds a 10-1 all-time record against UC Irvine, and has won the last three meetings, marking their longest winning streak in the series. Fans can follow the game live on the Beaver Sports Network throughout Oregon, with Mike Parker providing play-by-play commentary. Parker’s broadcast can also be accessed online via osubeavers.com and the Varsity Network app. For those unable to listen on the radio, UC Irvine will provide a live stream on ESPN+. Live stats will also be available on the Oregon State baseball schedule page.
The Beavers are 10-1 in March, ensuring their sixth consecutive winning month and extending a remarkable streak of 22 winning March records in the last 23 years. This consistent performance highlights the program’s sustained success and commitment to excellence.
Following Saturday’s game, the series concludes Sunday at Cicerone Field. The Beavers will look to secure a series victory and continue building momentum as they head into the heart of the Pac-12 season. Updates and further information can be found on the official Oregon State Athletics website.
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