In Corvallis, Oregon, Wilson Weber initiated a powerful home run assault for Oregon State with a three-run homer in the first inning, setting the stage for their 7-2 victory over TCU on Saturday, which kept them in contention in the Corvallis Regional.
After Weberโs impressive start, Trent Caraway hit a solo home run to lead off the second inning. The third inning featured AJ Singer hitting a home run as a lead-off and Tyce Peterson contributing a two-out, two-run homer to extend the lead.
Dax Whitney, who now holds a 6-3 record, delivered an exceptional performance from the mound, pitching six innings, giving up only four hits and two runs, and achieving a season-high of 12 strikeouts. Notably, this marked the fourth occasion this season when Whitney reached double-digit strikeouts.
Nelson Keljo took over for the final three innings, securing his second save of the season for Oregon State.
TCU managed to get both of their runs in the fifth inning, courtesy of a home run by Isaac Cadena. The game saw a total of 13 hits, including five home runs. Oregon State tallied seven hits overall, comprised of a double, two singles, and four home runs. In contrast, TCU accumulated two doubles and three singles in addition to Cadenaโs homer.
Looking ahead, Oregon State, boasting a 42-13-1 season as a three-time national champion and top regional seed, will face the loser of Saturdayโs semifinal match between third-seeded USC and No. 4 Saint Maryโs on Sunday.
TCU, with a record of 39-20, was appearing in the NCAA Tournament for the 20th time.