Oregon State's Walk-Off Thriller: Hubbard's Heroics Seal Victory Over Michigan
In a nail-biting finish at Surprise Stadium, Bryce Hubbard delivered a moment that Oregon State fans won't soon forget. On Monday, in the 10th inning, Hubbard launched a 396-foot homer over the right field fence, sealing a 5-4 victory against Michigan. It was a fitting end to the Beavers' stint in Arizona, marking their second consecutive walk-off win.
Facing Michigan reliever Preston Barr, Hubbard showed patience by taking the first pitch for a ball before making his decisive swing. This home run, Hubbard's first of his collegiate career, also marked his second RBI of the day. Earlier, he contributed with a sacrifice fly in the fourth inning.
The Beavers wrapped up a successful weekend, finishing 3-1 in front of over 21,000 fans at the Spring Training home of the Texas Rangers and Kansas City Royals. Michigan, who had previously defeated Oregon State on Friday, also left Arizona with a 3-1 record.
Jack Giordano, the seventh pitcher for Oregon State in this game, secured his first win by delivering a scoreless 10th inning, striking out two. The Beavers' pitching staff was impressive throughout, racking up a total of 16 strikeouts. Starter Trey Morris, making his college debut, was particularly notable with six strikeouts over 4 1/3 innings, allowing just a hit and a run.
Oregon State got on the scoreboard first with a two-run fourth inning. Easton Talt's double to center brought in the first run, and Hubbard's sac fly added another. Michigan responded in the fifth, narrowing the gap, but the Beavers extended their lead thanks to a balk.
The Wolverines clawed back to tie the game in the seventh with a key single from Tyler Inge, a former Beaver, and then again in the eighth on a ground out. However, Hubbard's late-game heroics ensured Oregon State emerged victorious.
Talt and Jacob Galloway each contributed two hits, with Hubbard's homer adding to Oregon State's nine hits on the day. Unfortunately for Michigan, Barr took the loss, marking his record at 0-1.
Looking ahead, Oregon State will face Baylor in Round Rock, Texas, this Friday. Fans can catch the action live at 4 p.m. PT (6 p.m. in Texas) on the Varsity Network and Beaver Sports Network, with a live stream available on D1Baseball.com.