Stanford: Stanford-OSU, Game 2
By Alex Gyr - April 28, 2007
There are plenty of questions to be answered in Game 2 of the series between Oregon State and Stanford here at Sunken Diamond: Will Stanford ever again beat OSU? (Answer: Probably, but it might be a while.) Will the Card have any shot of making the postseason? (Answer: No chance.) How sunburned will I get if I can't find someone with some sunscreen? (Answer: Extremely. I better get on that.)
A loss today for Stanford would probably solidify them as a non-postseason team, so this usually charged matchup has a little extra going, despite the apparent mismatch between the teams. Last nights 13-7 OSU win really showed the difference. Every chance OSU got, they took advantage (the Beavers scored 13 runs on just eight hits). Stanford, meanwhile, struggled in clutch spots as they had all year (seven runs on 14 hits). That's why Oregon State will still be playing through June, while Stanford will be taking their finals at home for the first time in years. I feel bad writing the Cardinal off with so many games left to play, but the record (17-22, 2-11 Pac-10) and the RPI (81) speak for themselves.
It will be freshman righthander Jeffrey Inman going for Stanford while lefty Joe Paterson will throw for the Beavers. Inman has surprisingly turned into Stanford's most reliable starter, overtaking Jeremy Bleich and Nolan Gallagher. Inman was a big-time recruit, but I do think it is a little surprising that he has turned into Stanford's top starter. Paterson, has put up rediculous numbers, just like basically every OSU pitcher. The numbers point to Paterson coming out on top, but as always, you never know.
It is expected to be in the ninties in Palo Alto this afternoon, so the hot weather could be a factor in wearing down the pitchers. At the same time, it could bring out a big crowd. Last night's rematch of the 2006 Corvallis Super Regional drew a pretty solid turnout, including a number of very vocal Beavers fans. Should be the same story today.
Time for me to get ready for the game. I'll be back postgame with a recap and some analysis.
Posted by Alex Gyr at 02:46 PM on April 28, 2007
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