The Barometer Online

Issue date: 4/9/09 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Cory Reed Sophomore second baseman John Tommasini slides into the plate in Oregon State's 6-2 win over California on April 4.

Off to its best start since 2005, the Oregon State (18-6, 5-1) baseball team returns to the Cactus State for its conference series against the University of Arizona (13-14, 2-7).

"Being 5-1 in the Pac-10 is a good thing right now, especially going into Arizona," junior pitcher Jorge Reyes said. "They're a tough squad, and it's a tough place to play. We definitely have an advantage with our momentum and three wins over Cal."

Although the Wildcats record might seem contrary to the statement, the University of Arizona will forever be identified as a baseball powerhouse with a coaching staff that knows how to assemble victories.

"Me personally, I normally don't look at what other teams are doing," junior catcher Ryan Ortiz said. "We just have to continue to do what we do. We're five and one, and we're playing really well right now."

A team that missed the College World Series by one game in 2008, Arizona has had all spring to prepare for the Beavers, playing 19 of its 27 games at home. When on the road this year, the Wildcats have only had to leave the state twice: once for a short trip to UNLV and another for a trip to Southern California.

"Last time we went to Arizona, we got swept," Ortiz said. "It's going to be a tough series against a good Arizona team. Hopefully we can walk away with a Pac-10 series win."

Arizona will do everything but roll over while in search of its first conference series victory.

As for the Beavers, Oregon State leaves its home state after a 14-game streak, including a perfect record at Goss Stadium. Currently, leading the Beavers 24 games into the season is New York, N.Y., native Adalberto Santos, batting a remarkable .352. Seeming to always find his way on base in pressure situations, the utility player from New Mexico Junior College has an on base percentage of .469 while stealing six of seven bases.

Hitting successfully in 22 of the Beavers 24 games, Santos is currently on a four-game hitting streak.

While players such as Santos continue to deliver for the club at the plate, it is the pitching staff of the Beavers that has allowed the team to be successful.

Continued...

Page 1 of 2 next >

Article Tools