Oregon Baseball: Ducks Sweep Series With Arizona at PK Park, Wildcats 0-6 in Pac 12

Last year’s Defending National Champion Arizona Wildcats came off of a rough weekend at home to start the Pac 12 schedule last weekend losing three straight games to #3 Oregon State. They came to Eugene this weekend looking to right the ship and get back on track, but the Ducks would not allow that to happen. Behind phenomenal pitching and timely hitting Oregon swept Arizona out of PK Park and sent them to an 0-6 Pac 12 Start.

In Friday’s opener Oregon(18-6, 5-1 Pac 12) took care of Arizona(15-11, 0-6 Pac 12) with three pitchers, starting with Jake Reed(3-3) who was able to get back to .500 in allowing six hits in six innings, striking out three and walking three. Pitcher Jimmie Sherfy picked up his seventh save of the season. At the plate Oregon was led by Shaun Chase(1 run, 1 hit) and Aaron Payne as the Ducks took the Opener 2-1.

Eric Evans/GoDucks.com

Saturday afternoon was a great day for baseball and once again Oregon did not disappoint. Again, it was the pitching. Starter Tommy Thorpe(3-2) and three relievers again limited Arizona’s offense to one run. Thorpe gave up six hits in 6 2/3 innings of work and allowed Arizona’s only run. At the plate Ryon Healy hit a three run homerun that opened up the game and the Ducks again won, this time 5-1.

Sunday’s finale ended up being the ‘hang on’ variety.  Oregon Starting Pitcher Cole Irvin went 5 1/3 giving up 3 runs, two earned and striking out one. In relief, Jeff Gold came into the game and shut down Arizona hitters for two innings. He struck out two. Pitcher Garrett Cleavenger gave up a run, leaving the game in the usually sure hand of Jimmie Sherfy. This time Arizona got to him, he gave up three hits, leading to two runs, but was able to close the door. Oregon won the finale 7–6 and swept the series with Arizona.

"“Great accomplishment for the sweep. Whether they’re down or not, who knows? I don’t think they’re that bad of a team. Luckily we got three wins before they start playing well. We’ll take it.”  Coach George Horton"

Oregon’s homestand continues with a game on Tuesday at 6pm as they host Portland for a one game set, before continuing the Pac 12 Schedule Thursday with Washington coming to Eugene.

Oregon Ducks This Week:

PAC-12 Men’s Basketball – Weekend Postseason Recap