In a dazzling display of pitching and power, the USC Trojans opened their series against Rice with a commanding 5-0 victory at Dedeaux Field. Mason Edwards was the star on the mound, delivering six hitless innings that left the Rice Owls searching for answers. Edwards, who’s been in top form to start the season, struck out a career-high 11 batters, showcasing his dominance by retiring 17 straight after a leadoff walk.
The offensive spark came from an unexpected source. Freshman Will Stickney made a memorable first impression, launching a home run in his first collegiate at-bat to break a scoreless tie in the third inning. It was a moment that electrified the crowd and set the tone for USC’s offensive efforts.
Gavin Lauridsen took the reins from Edwards in the seventh, entering the game with a slim 2-0 lead. The freshman showed poise beyond his years, shaking off a leadoff single to induce a double play and groundout, keeping Rice off the scoreboard through three solid innings. Lauridsen’s performance was sharp and efficient, striking out three without issuing a walk.
Kevin Takeuchi added to the Trojans’ lead with a clutch double in the fourth inning, and USC put the game out of reach with a three-run burst in the seventh. Adrian Lopez delivered a bases-loaded single to drive in two runs, and Abbrie Covarrubias crossed home on a wild pitch, sealing the 5-0 triumph.
With this win, USC improves to a perfect 5-0 on the season. Their pitching staff has been nothing short of spectacular, combining for 22 scoreless innings over the weekend, with 35 strikeouts while allowing just three hits and five walks.
The series continues with games on Saturday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at noon, both set to be broadcast live on B1G+. The Trojans will look to maintain their momentum and keep their unbeaten streak alive.