Final: WSU 5, OSU 3: There have been a lot of big-game pitchers at WSU, so it’s dangerous to start talking in superlatives about the latest. Aaron Shafer is up there after Saturday’s performance.
WSU 5, OSU 2 after six: WSU’s speed helps again. Kevin Hall walks and scores from second on a single by Dirks. Dirks extended his hitting streak to 28 games, fourth in WSU history. Hall, who also singled, continues to be a great story for WSU late in the season. He never looks overwhelmed, even though he is starting his ninth game.
WSU 4, OSU 2 after six: WSU scores two on a single by Gillaspie and an infield hit produced by Josh Workman’s speed. Shortstop Jordy Mercer double pumped his throw and as soon as he didn’t get it the first time he had no chance to get Workman. Gillaspie scored from third. Why does OSU pitch to Gillaspie? It makes no sense with first base open.
OSU 2, WSU 2, after four: Dusty Coleman hit a two-run homer. The Shockers have seven hits off Blanford. Making him work is about tonight, but it is also about getting into the OSU bullpen for a possible future matchup.
OSU 2, WSU 0, in the second: Neil Medchill hits a solo home run to left in the second. OSU scored a run in the first on one hit and a Shocker error.
Already a big day with the news that OSU ace Andrew Oliver is ineligible. No details other than that, but it is certainly strange and bad for the Cowboys. OSU will throw right-hander Tyler Blandford (4-5, 6.07) instead. He has been more effictive than that in his two most recent starts. Against Western Illinois, he allowed two hits and one run over five innings. Against Kansas State, he allowed hits and two earned runs over 7.2 innings. OSU’s bats may be able to carry it through this regional. If Oliver is done for the season, it will become an even bigger problem should the Cowboys reach the next round.
TCU defeated Western Kentucky 10-5 in the afternoon game. TCU coach Jim Schlossnagle feels good about his pitching. He has three people with experience starting remaining. The Frogs are in a bad spot, but not without hope. Their defense has been very solid, which may keep them in games.