Arizona Sweeps Oregon State, Extends Pac-12 Lead

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Wednesday, March 25th 2026 at 13:21 GMT by Arizona Daily Star
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Wildcats Complete Sweep of Beavers, Continuing Strong Pac-12 Season

TUCSON - The University of Arizona baseball team secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Oregon State in Sunday's series finale, completing a dominant sweep of the Beavers. The win extends Arizona's impressive record to 20-9 overall and 11-8 in Pac-12 play, solidifying their position as a contender in a highly competitive conference.

The Wildcats have demonstrated a resilience this season, consistently finding ways to win close games. This series against Oregon State (17-13, 8-11 Pac-12) was no exception. While the final score was tight, the sweep indicates a clear advantage in execution and overall team performance. Arizona's ability to consistently outperform their opponents, even when facing strong pitching like Oregon State's Cooper Hjerstedt, is a testament to their depth and coaching.

The game itself was a back-and-forth affair. Arizona initially took a 1-0 lead after three innings, showcasing their early offensive capabilities. Oregon State responded in the fourth, tying the game and then seizing a 2-1 advantage in the sixth. However, the Wildcats' unwavering spirit and clutch hitting proved decisive in the eighth inning.

"We just kept playing," Arizona coach Jay Johnson stated after the game. "We felt like we were in a good spot. We just needed to keep playing and keep grinding." This sentiment encapsulates the team's philosophy - a relentless pursuit of victory regardless of the circumstances. Johnson's leadership has clearly instilled a culture of perseverance within the program.

Pitching played a crucial role in the Wildcats' success. Starter Blake Larson delivered a strong performance, pitching 6 2/3 innings and conceding only two runs on six hits. This sustained effort kept Arizona within striking distance. However, the real difference maker was reliever Anthony Susser, who pitched 2 1/3 scoreless innings to earn the win. Susser's ability to come in during a critical moment and shut down the Oregon State offense was a key factor in securing the victory. Arizona's bullpen depth is becoming increasingly evident as a strength.

While the Beavers also boasted strong pitching - Hjerstedt pitched a commendable 7 innings, allowing just one run on four hits - Arizona's offense ultimately found a way to break through. The Wildcats' offensive struggles for much of the game highlighted the effectiveness of Oregon State's pitching staff, but their late-inning rally proved that they can deliver when the pressure is on.

The eighth-inning surge began with a single from Carson Christensen, igniting the Arizona offense. Jacob McMillan followed with another single, putting runners on base. A subsequent single from Drew Swift tied the game, creating a pivotal moment. Eddie Katz then stepped up to the plate and delivered a crucial sacrifice fly, scoring McMillan and giving Arizona a 3-2 lead. This display of situational hitting showcased the team's awareness and ability to execute in high-pressure situations.

Susser then closed out the game with a scoreless ninth inning, cementing the victory and completing the sweep. His composure and ability to throw strikes under pressure were essential in preventing a potential Oregon State comeback.

Looking ahead, Arizona will travel to Utah for a three-game series beginning Friday. This matchup will be another test for the Wildcats as they continue their pursuit of a Pac-12 championship. Utah is a formidable opponent, and Arizona will need to maintain its current level of play to achieve success. The team's recent performance, coupled with a strong pitching rotation and a resilient offense, suggests they are well-equipped to handle the challenges that lie ahead. Fans are eagerly anticipating another strong showing from the Wildcats as they aim to build on their momentum and continue their winning streak.