As the NCAA Regionals are double elimination, the Bearcats cannot afford to lose another game in Corvallis, Oregon. On Friday night, Coach Googins’ squad shocked the college baseball ecosystem by defeating Oregon State, the defending national champions, on their home field. Even Hall of Fame catcher Johnny Bench took note.
Since capturing the AAC Championship in Clearwater, Florida, Googins has continually questioned UC’s players: “Why not us?” Driving the point home, he even invited Kevin Youkilis (former Boston Red Sox first baseman and UC standout 1997-2001) to address the team. That message was working until last night.
Last night, Clifton’s overachievers dropped a tough game against Michigan. The path forward, now, is difficult but not impossible.
To make it out of Corvallis, the University of Cincinnati must first defeat Creighton today at 3 PM EST (12 PM PCT), and then exact revenge against Michigan tonight at 9 PM EST (6 PM PCT). If the Bearcats get two wins today, they’ll have to beat Michigan again tomorrow night at 10 PM EST (7 PM PCT). Again, tough but not impossible.
As an aside, UC’s left fielder, 6’5″ Sophomore Joey Wiemer, has drawn some national attention for his colorful play this postseason. His diving catch against Oregon State and his backhanded grab against Michigan both made ESPN’s Top Ten Plays.
Be sure to tune in to the game against Creighton at 3 PM. Here’s a link to the ESPN3 feed. Talk soon, friends.
By Brian Fox
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