BASEBALL
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UCSD Club Baseball is a competitive team that aims to give passionate students the opportunity to continue their baseball careers.
Since 2010, this team has played in the National Club Baseball Association at the Division 1 level. In the SoPac South Region, we play conference games against San Diego State, Arizona State, University of Arizona, Grand Canyon, and Northern Arizona. The goal is to make it to the NCBA Regional Tournament and then the World Series.
Our team is completely student-run, so we prioritize a healthy student life balance above all else. This team is a commitment and we hold high expectations for all our players, but we offer a degree of flexibility that helps student athletes achieve on and off the field.
The team practices 4 times (5-8 hrs) per week, including on-campus field practices, performance training at the Spanos Athletic Performance Center, and off-campus batting cages. Most of our practices are at night to avoid conflict with class schedules. Games take place exclusively on weekends, usually consisting of a 3 game series. We play about 5 series (on average) per quarter year round, with our conference season taking place February - May.
The annual player fees will be $700 total, $350 for the off-season and $350 for the conference season. This pays for all the fields, umpires, travel accommodations, equipment, and apparel (hats + shirts). We do offer payment plans for those who need it.
Feel free to email us any further questions.
NEWSLETTERS
NEWS AND RESULTS
Stay tuned for updates for the upcoming year!
4/25-26/26 - Tritons Finish an Up and Down Season With Wins Against the Sun Devils
Coming into their last series of the season, the Tritons aimed to end the season strong, and do what seemed impossible after starting the conference season 1-5: finish with a winning conference record. Game 1 was the first in recent memory that veteran Finn Daecher did not take the mound, the usual game 1 starter for the Tritons noticeably absent this weekend. His absence was felt, as the Tritons gave up 8 runs, and even though they out-hit the Sun Devils 14-10, the Tritons could not capitalize on their baserunners, dropping the first game of the series 8-5.
Game 2 saw freshman pitcher Seth Rutman throw a gem of a game, going the full 7 innings only giving up 3 runs and 1 hit. The offense was able to back him up, scoring the 2 runs needed to win the game 2-1 as the Tritons pulled themselves back up to a .500 conference record of 7-7 before the final game of the season.
In game 3, the Tritons jumped out to a big lead early and never let go, scoring 5 runs in the first 2 innings. 8 different players collected a hit for the Tritons as they cruised to a 7-3 victory and a winning conference record, going 7-2 over their last 3 conference series and finishing 8-7 on the season.
4/18-19/26 - Tritons Secure Sweep in Flagstaff
After a short two-week break, the Tritons looked to keep the ball rolling in Flagstaff. Going 5-2 in their last 7 games, the Tritons did not want to be the team to drop a game to the winless Lumberjacks. Even though their playoff chances look slim, all of these games are must-win. Game 1 was just another day at the office for Finn Daecher, tossing 6 innings of 1-run baseball as the offense stayed hot, giving the Tritons a 6-1 lead going into the bottom of the seventh. Lincoln Wirschem closed out the game, and the Tritons added another one to the win column, final score 6-3.
Game 2 felt similar to game 1, the Tritons taking a large lead early, going up 5-0 by the middle of the fourth inning, but the cracks in the bullpen started to show, and by the end of the fourth inning, the Tritons were only up by a run. Joon Lee then came in to pitch for the Tritons, and was rock solid, earning himself a 3-inning save as the Tritons secured a 6-5 victory thanks to an insurance run scored late in the top of the seventh inning.
Game 3 was more of the same, the Tritons put runs on the board early, up 8-1 in the fourth inning thanks to a 5 RBI game from Ethan Neuner. The Jacks tried to mount a charge late in the ballgame, but the Triton bullpen was steady enough to hold them off, leading UCSD to a 9-7 victory and first sweep of the season. The Tritons, now 8-2 in their last 10 games, have one more conference series vs Arizona State to look forward to and hope to end the season on a high note against a team with a winning record.
3/25-28/26 - Tritons Rolling With Three Wins in Vegas
Spring Break saw the Tritons head out to Las Vegas to participate in the NBCA’s annual Swing Into Spring Tournament in Henderson, Nevada. TheTritons spent four days in the desert, playing four games across three of those days. With only 16 players present, could a shorthanded Triton squad pull it off like they did in Phoenix?
Game 1 pitted the Tritons up against the Sacramento State Hornets, who were 8-1 on the year and sat atop the SoPac North conference standings. The Tritons threw all they had at the Hornets, and veteran pitcher Finn Daecher threw 7 scoreless innings, striking out 9 on the way to a commanding UCSD victory as the entire team contributed to an 8-0 final score.
The Tritons faced the Montana State Bobcats in Game 2, a team from the Northern Pacific - East conference that the Tritons had never seen before. This game was the polar opposite of game 1, with four different pitchers taking the mound for the Tritons. Going into the bottom of the 7th inning, the Tritons were down 7-6. Thanks to a couple clutch walks and hits, UCSD tied the game up, and with a single to left field Ethan Neuner walked the game off for the Tritons, final score 8-7.
Immediately after their thrilling win, the Tritons had to gear up to face UC Santa Cruz, a team they played last year in this same tournament and handled with ease. The Tritons pulled ahead early, giving themselves a cushy 6-1 lead by the end of the 2nd inning. The Triton bat went cold however, and a pair of 3-run innings in the 3rd and 6th saw the game tied 7 apiece going into the bottom of the 7th, but unlike the previous game, the Banana Slugs were up to bat. Two walks and two hit-by-pitches saw the Slugs walk off the game and hand the Tritons their first loss of the tournament, an ugly one at that.
Game 4 the very next morning saw the Tritons take on the Weber State Wildcats, another team they played and beat in Vegas last year. The game had a much different feel from the day before as the Tritons offense put on a clinic. They racked up 15 hits and 16 runs on the day, outscoring the Wildcats 16-6. Freshman pitcher Seth Rutman also got back to form, tossing 5 scoreless innings and striking out 8.
Overall, it was a good week for the Tritons. 3-1 on the weekend is nothing to scoff at but they’ll leave knowing that a perfect 4-0 record was on the table. They’ll take a week off and prepare for Arizona State to come to town on April 11th.
3/7/26 - Tritons Bounce Back, Take Down Ranked GCU
Coming into the weekend with a conference record of 1-5, the Tritons were desperate for a win to stay in contention for postseason play. As they traveled to Phoenix to play #15 ranked Grand Canyon University with a shorthanded squad of 19 players, their chances were looking slim.
Game 1 looked to be more of the same, The Tritons fell behind early, and by the 3rd inning, they faced a 5-0 deficit. An RBI groundout by Jaydee Denning in the top of the 5th cut the lead to 4 runs, but the Tritons entered the top of the 7th down 6-1. Key singles by Lincoln Wirschem, Kohei Shimada, and Jaydee Denning got the inning started, and suddenly the Tritons were in the game. A few walks and a couple more hits later, and the Tritons had tied the game up with only one out in the inning. JP Herd came up to bat with a runner on 3rd base, and hit a sacrifice fly to left field, scoring the run that gave the Tritons their first lead of the weekend. Finn Daecher went out to the mound for the 7th inning and shut down the GCU offense, finishing his complete game, and securing his first win of the season, and only the Tritons second win over the Lopes in five seasons.
Taking the momentum into Game 2, the Tritons did something completely out of character for this season: they scored first. Scoring 2 runs in the top of the 3rd inning, the Tritons put their foot on the gas and never took it off. GCU scored one run in each of the 3rd, 4th, and 5th innings, but the Triton offense always had a response, scoring 2, 2, and 3 runs of their own respectively. Lex Hou and Jaydee Denning had 3 RBIs each on the way to a comfortable 8-3 win, and an impressive first series win clinched by the end of Saturday.
Game 3 was an offensive battle, each team scoring 5 runs in the 4th inning, the Tritons offense bolstered by a 2-run home run from Denning. Heading into the bottom of the 8th, the Tritons were down 10-8, and within striking distance. The Lopes were able to put 2 runs on the board in the bottom of the inning, and the 4-run deficit proved insurmountable as the Tritons couldn’t claw their way back like that had the day prior, dropping Game 3 12-8.
The weekend was successful overall, as the Tritons delivered GCU their first conference series loss since before the pandemic, an encouraging sign for the rest of their season. Hopefully they can take this momentum into the Swing into Spring Tournament in Henderson, Nevada in two weeks and claim a few more victories.
2/28/26 - Tritons Mount Impressive Comeback En Route to Their First Victory of the Year
After a much needed week off, UCSD Club Baseball came into the weekend looking for their first win of the season against the University of Arizona. After the first five and a half innings, it looked like the Triton squad hadn’t made any adjustments. Trailing 10-4 heading into the bottom of the 6th, the Tritons’ defense was less than impressive, making 5 errors and allowing 4 unearned runs. The Triton bats however, finally came alive in the bottom of the 6th scoring 5 runs to bring the game back into reach. Slugger Jean Pierre Herd doubled in the 7th to score the tying run, and the game went into extra innings. Freshman pitcher Asher Epifano threw 3 shut out innings in the 7th, 8th, and 9th to keep the Tritons in the game until Jayden Kim drew a walk-off walk in the bottom of the 9th to give the Tritons their first win of the season 11-10.
It was a hot day on Saturday, and both teams came into the second game of the day tired and sunburnt. Through the 3rd inning, it was a 3-3 deadlock, and it seemed like the Tritons had an answer for anything the Wildcats could throw at them. A 3-run 5th inning from the Wildcats blew the game open however, and the Tritons just couldn’t quite respond, dropping Game 2 8-4.
On Sunday, Freshman pitcher Seth Rutman took the mound as he looked to recreate his magic from the previous series. He couldn’t quite match what he did against the Aztecs, giving up 5 runs in 6 innings, and a 2 for 4 day at the plate from graduate student Finn Daecher wasn’t enough to pull the Tritons to a win as they lost the final game of the weekend 6-3.
The Tritons travel to Phoenix next weekend to play GCU in a series that is looking more and more like a make or break point for their season. The team remains optimistic and after a hard week at practice, feels they will be ready for the challenge.
2/14/26 - Tough Pill to Swallow: Tritons Lose First Conference Series to SDSU
After an unsuccessful road trip to San Luis Obispo the previous weekend, the Tritons looked to turn their fortunes around by winning their first conference series of the year against cross-town rival SDSU.
Game 1 got off to a rocky start when the Aztecs scored 4 runs in the top of the 2nd inning, but the Tritons answered back immediately, scoring 2 runs of their own to stay within reach. The game would stay that way until the 5th inning when the Aztecs extended their lead by 2 more runs. Going into the 6th inning, the Tritons still had two innings left to make up a 4-run deficit, a very manageable task in theory. However, the Tritons fell apart in the top of the inning, giving up 8 runs that went unanswered for the rest of the game, leading to a 15-3 loss.
Coming out of the break, the Tritons looked to bounce back in game 2 of the doubleheader, but the early stages looked eerily similar to what had happened barely 3 hours earlier. SDSU had jumped out to a 4-0 lead by the middle of the 3rd inning, but the Tritons were able to answer back, scoring 3 runs by end of the 4th. The stalemate was broken in the top of the 6th when the Aztecs scored 2 more of their own, and once again the Triton offense was unable to respond, dropping the second game 6-3.
Game 3 turned out to be a pitchers’ duel, as Triton freshman pitcher Seth Rutman went 8 innings while only giving up 2 runs. The SDSU starter was unfortunately able to match him out for out, and through the 8th, the Tritons found themselves staring at a 2-run deficit. In the top of the 9th, sophomore Lincoln Wirschem came in to close the game and was unable to contain the Aztec offense as they put up 4 runs in their last at bats of the game. In what seems to be a recurring theme, the Triton’s bats stayed cold as they were unable to put any runs on the board in the bottom of the 9th, losing the game 6-0.
The Tritons have a week off before they play the University of Arizona at Triton Ballpark next. They’ll be looking to finally wake up their slumbering offense and get the proverbial “monkey off their back” as they seek their first win of the season.
2/7/26 - Tritons Can’t Quite Capitalize Against a Hot Mustang Team
The Tritons knew that their best chance to take a game from a perennial top-10 San Luis Obispo team was to catch them off guard in game 1, and they nearly did. Five year veteran Finn Daecher pitched the best game the Tritons could have hoped for; after giving up 1 run in the 1st inning he threw 6 straight scoreless innings. After UCSD scored a run in the top of the 7th to tie the game up at 1-1, the Tritons and Mustangs headed to extras. In the bottom of the 8th inning with the bases loaded, the Mustangs hit a sacrifice fly to right field and were able to score the runner from third, taking game 1, 2-1.
Coming out of the break, the Tritons just wanted to get through game 2 of the doubleheader. The Mustangs never had an inning where they scored more than 2 runs, but the Tritons just couldn’t keep up with their constant offensive barrage. Ethan Neuner and Jaydee Denning had the only hits of the game for the Tritons on their way to an 8-0 shutout.
Going into Sunday, the Tritons looked to be back on form. Freshman pitcher Scott Olinger threw 3 scoreless innings, and in the top of the 4th, great baserunning allowed the Tritons to steal a run and go up 1-0. Unfortunately, Cal Poly were able to kickstart their offense and score 4 runs in the bottom of the inning. They wouldn’t relinquish the lead for the rest of the game and the Tritons lost 14-4 en route to an 0-3 weekend.
Next weekend, the Tritons look to regain momentum against cross-town rival SDSU in their first conference series of the year.
10/18/25 - New Look Tritons Go 2-1 in SoCal Shootout
After a long two weeks of tryouts, the Tritons have finalized their roster for the year, which includes a whopping 16 new players. It was a quick turnaround for the new guys from last weekend's tryout series, but they handled it like veterans. After giving last year's NCBA World Series Semifinalist Gauchos a run for their money on Saturday; only losing 6-5 on a walk-off hit-by-pitch, the Tritons showed out on Sunday. Starting off strong with an 11-0 rout of UC Riverside on the back of freshman catcher Andrew Chao's 3-hit game, the Tritons looked to carry momentum into the final game of the weekend against their crosstown rival Aztecs. After falling behind early 4-1, the Triton bats finally woke up, scoring 7 runs in the 4th inning. They would hold the lead to the end of the game, making a statement with a 12-6 win over a strong conference rival.
10/11-12/25 - UCSD Tryout Players Sweep USD
UCSD hosted their yearly "tryout series", where prospective players show their skills in a full series against the University of San Diego. They fell behind 4-1 early in game 1 after a shaky start both on the mound and in the field. The team rallied late to pull ahead 6-4 and hold onto their lead for a final score of 6-5. In game 2, the Tritons jumped out to an early 8-0 lead in the second inning thanks to great discipline at the plate. USD gave them a scare with a 6 run 6th inning, but the Tritons were able to fend them off for a game 2 win, with a final score of 10-9. Game 3 on Sunday looked to be following a similar script to game 2, the Tritons surged ahead 5-0 but squandered the lead in the 6th after a 5 run effort by USD. However, the Triton Club Baseball hopefuls put on a hitting clinic in the 8th, scoring 8 unanswered runs behind Jayden Kim's 2 clutch rbi singles. The Tritons wouldn't lose this lead, finishing off the series sweep with a convincing 13-5 victory.
5/3/25 - Tritons Dominate Northern Arizona on Sun God
Due to Sun God happening on Saturday, our usual series format was altered so we only played our 9 inning game Saturday morning so our team could make it to the Sun God festival. The Tritons immediately put pressure on NAU, scoring 2 runs in the first inning on 2 doubles from Jaydee Denning and Ethan Neuner. To start the home half of the 2nd, the Tritons loaded the bases with a hit and 2 walks. Jaydee Denning, who started hitting leadoff due to his ability to get on base, decided to start being a power hitter and launched a ball over the left field fence to put the Tritons up 6-0. In the 6th, the Tritons added to their lead when JP Herd hit a 2 run bomb for his 6th on the year. In the Bottom of the 8th, Jaydee decided he wasn't done yet and hit a second home run to cap off the Tritons scoring. While the offense scored an impressive 9 runs, Finn Daecher's pitching performance may be the best of the season. Finn went through 7 innings only allowing 5 hits and tallying 11 strikeouts, doing so in only 93 total pitches. This game was how the Tritons knew they could play all season long and it was great to see everything finally coming together.
The Tritons were supposed to play a double header Sunday morning, but overnight rain compromised the field conditions and they were unable to play Sunday.
Highlights: Jaydee Denning: 2 HR, 5 RBI, 2R & Finn Daecher: 7IP, 5H, 11K, 93 pitches
4/26/25 - The Tritons Eliminate SDSU From Playoff Contention
Game 1: The Trolley Series between UCSD and SDSU started off with the Tritons, the away team this year, jumping out to an early 1-0 lead off of a double by Jai Benedito. Max Hill would lead off the 2nd inning with a walk and a sac bunt, ground out, and single would score him, putting the Tritons up 2-0. The Aztecs would respond with a walk followed by 2 singles to close the gap back to 1 run. They would continue to pressure the Tritons in the 3rd by loading the bases with no outs and scoring 2 runs on 2 sacrifice flies, taking the lead 3-2. An error in the 4th for the Tritons would give the Aztecs another run in the 4th. The 5th inning saw more traffic on the bases for SDSU with multiple walks and hits giving them a 5-2 lead heading into the 6th inning. In the 6th, a hit by pitch and walk put 2 runners on for the Tritons and in dramatic fashion, JP Herd hit his 3rd home run of the year with 2 outs to tie the game at 5. The energy was short lived, though, as the Aztecs would win on a walkoff single in the 7th after an error that put the winning run on as the Tritons fell 6-5.
Game 2: JP Herd continued his power hitting into the second game with a solo home run in the 1st inning putting the Tritons on top early once again. The Aztecs responded with a few singles and a couple extra bases after a dropped 3rd strike. The 2nd and 3rd innings saw little activity, but the Tritons would go up 2-1 in the 4th on JP Herd's 3rd home run on the day. The Aztecs quickly loaded the bases and scored 2 runs off a timely single to take a 3-2 lead. The Tritons would fall further behind on another passed ball allowing the Aztecs to score yet again. As the game continued, rain started to fall making the ball harder to see and throw for pitchers. This proved difficult for the UCSD pitchers who allowed 3 walks with multiple balls going past the catcher, giving up 2 runs to SDSU essentially for free. The Tritons scored a run in the 7th, but couldn't put any more runs on the board, falling 6-3 in game 2.
Game 3: In what seems to be the theme of nearly every game this year, the Tritons scored first on a double from Lex Hou who scored 2 from a single and an error. However, the 2nd inning saw difficulties for the Tritons as walks and timely hits by the Aztecs put them on top, again as seems to be the theme of the weekend. The Tritons didn't let that lead last for very long as they tied the score at 5 after 3 singles, a sacrifice bunt, and another single. The Aztecs also continued their scoring in the 4th, adding on another run to go up 6-5. The Tritons, still looking to win a game in the series, took the lead on a rally in the 5th adding on 3 runs on a bases clearing double from Landon Lee. The 6th, 7th, and 8th innings went by with both teams showing their best defense and looking for a win. The Tritons ultimately broke this scoreless streak in the 9th on 5 hits and 2 free bases, going up 14-6 heading into SDSU's last shot at winning and potentially making playoffs. While they would score once, the Aztecs could not come up with enough runs. The Tritons not only won but also eliminated the Aztecs from playoff contention.
Players of the Week: JP Herd, 3 HR, 6 hits total & Ethan Ou, 6 IP, 1ER, 7K
4/19/25 - Tritons Offense Continues to be Hot, but the Bullpen Stays Cold
The Tritons traveled to Scottsdale, Arizona to take on Arizona State at the San Francisco Giants spring training stadium! Coming off of a disappointing series against University of Arizona, the Tritons came with a fire to win.
Game 1: The Tritons started the weekend hot, scoring 4 runs in the second inning to take a 4 -1 lead on 5 singles with most of the lineup contributing to the early lead. They would continue to score in the 4th and 5th innings to go up 6-1, with Tyler Kong, Jaydee Denning, Ethan Neuner, and Lincoln Wirschem each with 2 hits. In the bottom of the 5th, the Sun Devils would score 2 runs on two singles and a triple which is the first real life they showed on offense. A fielder's choice scored the Sun Devils another run to put them down 2. UCSD would continue to hit singles in the 7th to go up 7-4 entering the last half inning of the game. However, a slow start for the bullpen meant two runners were put on for free for ASU. They would chain together 3 singles to score 3 runs, tying the game and loading the bases. The Tritons would walk in the losing run, ending the game 8-7.
Game 2: The Tritons began to bounce back in the second game scoring 2 runs in the first inning after a walk, hit by pitch, and then a couple singles. The Sun Devils would score off an error in the first, but would find their rhythm in the third innings, scoring 3 runs on 4 hits and a walk. A few errors followed by a double scored the Sun Devils 2 more in the 4th, putting the Tritons down 6-2. The 5th inning turned out to be a nightmare with many walks and hits giving the Sun Devils 6 runs and the win off a run rule.
Game 3: The Tritons changed their strategy around and the result was a high scoring chaotic game. The Tritons found themselves down 6-0 after three innings due to some hits, walks, and the smallest strike zone NCBA has ever seen. However, they flipped the script in the 4th, scoring 5 runs to close the gap to only 1 run through incredible plate discipline and a few timely hits. The Tritons continued scoring in the 6th on 4 singles to tie the game at 7. They surpassed the Sun Devils as their offense finally boomed in the 7th innings on back to back triples by Makai Morisaki and Ethan Neuner, followed by a double from JP Herd. Walks and singles were thrown in the mix, giving the Tritons a 12-7 lead. ASU scored two runs in response after multiple extra base hits, but the Tritons would add to their lead with a few walks, hit by pitches, and an error from the Sun Devils. The Tritons added a run in the 9th and finished the game strong, winnings 18-10.
4/5/25 - Tritons Can't Come Away With a Win in Tucson
Heading into the weekend, the Tritons were eager to continue conference play after not playing conference games since their disappointing weekend against GCU in February. Game 1 was a pitchers duel with Finn Daecher pitching 6 innings and only giving up 1 run on 2 hits and 2 walks. While their defense was great, their offense was severely lacking, totaling only 4 hits throughout the game. Their inability to put runners on would ultimately cost them the game.
Game 2 started out with both teams scoring early. The Tritons scored in the 2nd off a triple from Finn Daecher and a double from Jaydee Denning, but would give up two runs in the same inning due to a couple hits from the Arizona hitters and an error. However, 3 hits in the 3rd for UCSD gave them a 1 run lead going into the 4th where they would score again on a couple hits and errors by the Wildcat defense. Going into the 6th, the Tritons had a 4-3 lead, but a combination of walks and timely hits by the Wildcats scored them 4 runs for a 7-4 lead which they would hold in the 7th (last) inning of game 2.
Going into game 3, the Tritons were fired up and wanted to finish the weekend on a high note. The Tritons scored fast on a double from JP Herd who continues to have an incredible rookie season. Walks would again be costly for the Tritons as Arizona scored 2 runs in the first 2 innings to go up 2-1. They would score again in the 4th on back to back doubles to put the Tritons further behind 3-1. In the 6th, the Tritons would start scoring again as a hit by pitch followed by back to back singles would put them down only 3-2. An error from the Wildcat shortstop kept the inning alive and tied the game for the Tritons who would then score 2 more on another single. Another walk for Arizona allowed them to score in the 6th, putting themselves only down 1 run. They would take the lead by 1 in the 7th as their runners started stealing bags left and right. In their last at bat in the 9th, the Tritons would tie the game at 6 after a double from Lincoln Wirschem followed by a phenomenal bunt from Kohei Shimada. In extra innings the Tritons fell as errors and walks proved to be their downfall again.
Highlights: Finn Daecher 7IP, 2H, 1ER & JP Herd 1 R, 3H, 2RBI
3/21/25 - Tritons go 3-1 in Las Vegas Tournament
Henderson Tournament
Game 1 vs Wisconsin
The Tritons kicked off their Vegas games with an impressive offensive barrage against Wisconsin’s DII team, scoring 19 runs on 17 hits. The offense was led by JP Herd, who tallied 3 hits, including a solo home run. The rest of the offense was just as formidable, with seven of the nine players in the starting lineup having multi-hit games. Leander Goessling started the game, going 3.1 innings before getting into a bases-loaded jam with only one out and giving way to relief pitcher Kyle Matsuno, who induced a ground-ball double play on only one pitch. Jake Shukur then came in to close out the game in the 5th inning, as the Tritons took this game 19-6 by mercy rule.
Game 2 vs Utah
After coming off a blowout win, the Tritons had momentum going up against #16 ranked Utah. However, starting pitcher Ethan Ou had trouble settling in as he surrendered 7 runs through only 3 innings. The Tritons’ offense had trouble scoring until they finally broke through for 4 runs in the 6th inning as Lincoln Wirschem and Lex Hou both had RBI singles that drove in 2 runs each. However, this momentum was short-lived as they eventually fell to Utah by a score of 10-4.
Game 3 vs UCSC
The Tritons were loose and relaxed for the exhibition game against UC Santa Cruz. They boasted a lineup of pitchers and players playing out of position and were looking forward to a fun game. Surprisingly, the offense erupted for 14 runs on only 6 hits, as it was kicked off by a lead-off triple by starting pitcher turned shortstop Ethan Ou. The scoring would quickly get out of hand as the Tritons scored 7 runs and 5 runs in the first and second innings respectively. Also surprisingly, the Tritons’ defense, which at one point had seven pitchers on the field at the same time, did not commit a single error. Despite a strange cast of pitchers, only 3 runs were surrendered as the Tritons took this game 14-3 in 5 innings by mercy rule.
Game 4 vs Weber
The fourth and final game of the Tritons’ time in Vegas was a pitcher’s duel as both offenses struggled to get anything going. The Tritons scored 2 runs on 3 straight singles and a couple RBI ground balls by Connor Price and Makai Morisaki. These would end up being the only runs scored all game by both teams. On the mound for the Tritons was Finn Daecher, who pitched a complete game shutout only surrendering 2 inconsequential base hits and striking out 11 batters.
3/15/25 - Tritons Split a Double Header Against CSUSM
Due to rain throughout the week, the original schedule was altered and only a double header was played instead of the usual three game series format. Game one was the Tritons Senior Day, honoring 13 seniors who have dedicated a lot of time and effort to creating a great team culture and talented group. The game started well for the Tritons, scoring a run in the bottom of the first inning to take a 1-0 lead. A pair of singles and a fielder's choice allowed CSUSM to score 2 runs in the second inning and take the lead. In the top of the 5th inning, the Tritons walked two runners which hurt when the next batter hit a sacrifice fly to score another run. To make matters worse, a throwing error from the Tritons allowed another run to score, falling further behind as CSUSM went up 4-1. In the bottom of the 6th, the Tritons would chain together a walk, an error in the field, and a single to load the bases. A passed ball allowed Curtis Faletti to score to raise the energy for the Tritons as they pushed to even the score. Ethan Neuner also scored shortly after on a wild pitch, putting the Tritons down 4-3. In the bottom of the 7th, the Tritons would have a runner on first get caught stealing while simultaneously striking out, leaving them down to their last out while still down one. However, a hit by pitch from Curtis Faletti and two singles from JP Herd and Ethan Neuner would score them the run they needed to tie and continue the game, but the sadness of losing a run means that we couldn’t earn the win in the 7th. In the 8th, CSUSM would have a single and a double put runners on 2nd and 3rd, both of whom scored on a double from the next batter. Down 6-4, the Tritons went to bat. A walk and a double scored a run, but they ultimately couldn't come up with another run and fell 6-5.
Game 2 started much slower, with neither team scoring in the first 3 innings. CSUSM would hit a double and score on a fielding error from the Tritons, making the score 1-0. In the 5th inning, the Cougars would find their rhythm at the plate, hitting two singles and two doubles to score three more runs going up 4-0. However, the Tritons responded in the bottom of the 5th with incredible plate discipline, drawing three walks and a single to score two runs. However, the Cougars would respond again with a single and a triple in the 6th and, along with another Triton error, scored two runs to make the score 6-2. In the bottom of the 6th, the Tritons continued their excellent at bats, loading the bases with a walk, a single, and a hit by pitch. With the bases loaded, JP Herd and Max Hill both hit singles to score two runs, putting the Tritons within 2. Two hit by pitches would tie the game at 6 before going to the 7th and final inning. The Tritons would hold their own with Jake Shukur locking down the 7th. In the bottom of the 7th a clutch double from Lincoln Wirschem would put a runner in scoring position. Continuing his amazing hitting streak, JP Herd would hit a single on the first pitch of his at bat, scoring the winning run as the Tritons win 7-6.
2/22/25 - The Tritons Have a Tough Opening Series
Series vs GCU
The Tritons began the season against GCU, who is ranked 2nd in the nation and unfortunately, two weekends in a row rained out means the Tritons were coming into the series with little warm up. The first game started off well for the Antelopes, who, on one mistake, took a 3-0 lead on a homerun in the first inning. However, the pitcher for the Tritons, Finn Daecher, would quickly settle in and dominated the Antelopes the rest of the game only allowing one other run and throwing under 90 pitches for a full 7 inning game. Despite his great outing, it was clear the Tritons had not seen live pitching in a while, getting only 3 hits all game with 15 strikeouts, leading to a 4-0 loss.
Game two started similarly, with the Antelopes scoring early and often taking an early lead in the first inning. A similar story for the Triton offense, with little activity and a few errors from the Tritons in the second and third innings that would cost them more runs, going down 9-0 in the first three innings. A double from JP Herd in the bottom of the 5th and an RBI single from Jaydee Denning scored UCSD their first run of the series, but they ended the second game due to a run rule of being down more than 10 runs after 5 innings.
Game 3 looked like it could be a game 2 repeat, with the Antelopes putting 3 hits together in the first inning for 2 runs and another few runs to go up 5-0 in the 4th inning. However, the Triton offense finally came alive in the 5th, loading the bases with no outs and walking in a run to make the score 5-1. The Tritons gave up 2 outs quickly after, but a pinch hit single from Ethan Neuner cleared the bases, putting the Tritons within 1. An error in the 6th cost the Tritons another run, but the Tritons would respond in the 7th with what may be the hardest hit ball this year from freshman JP Herd for a solo homerun. The Tritons put runners in scoring positions in the 8th and 9th innings but couldn't come up with the tying run, losing the final game 6-5. Although a tough first series, they had not played in a game since Novembe,r and there was a lot of talent shown as the series went on, especially from the new team members.
Player of the Week: JP Herd 4-7, Double, HR, 1.714 OPS.
10/26/24 - UCSD Takes on UCSB & SDSU
Game 1 was a pitchers’ duel between UCSD and UCSB. It was 0-0 into the 6th inning, with both teams struggling to generate offense against some excellent pitching. However, UCSB managed to capitalize on a dropped ball, followed by a lucky hit that allowed them to drive in all four runs of the game. With the late-game deficit and limited opportunities, UCSD was unable to mount a comeback and lost 0-4. Despite the loss, the team showed resilience and strong pitching throughout the game, and it was clear that their defense and composure were solid throughout.
Game 2 was a rematch against UCSB the following day, and the team was determined to bounce back. Unfortunately, UCSD fell behind early, and despite several strong at-bats, they were never able to fully recover. However, the Tritons showed heart, putting together a rally in the final inning that brought the score within 4 runs. With some timely hitting and aggressive base running, UCSD made it a more competitive game, but ultimately fell 10-6. Even in the face of adversity, the team’s spirit remained high, and their ability to fight back in the final inning was a promising sign of their determination.
The final game was against SDSU, who had just come off a dramatic walk off win against UCSB and entered the game full of energy. UCSD, however, was undeterred and jumped out to an early 3-0 lead, fueled by hot bats and strong offensive execution. But SDSU responded quickly, tying the game at 3-3, and the momentum shifted back and forth. In the final inning, UCSD found themselves trailing by 1 with a runner on second, giving them a chance to walk off with a win. Unfortunately, they couldn’t capitalize on the opportunity, and the game ended with a 4-3 loss. While the Tritons fell short in all three games, there were many positives to take away from the weekend. The team grew stronger with each game, and players started to understand how they blend together as a unit. With solid pitching, a strong defensive foundation, and a growing offensive rhythm, UCSD is beginning to find their identity as a team and is eager to continue improving as the season progresses.
10/12/24 - UCSD vs. USD
The first series of the year started with the tryout group showcasing their talents. The first game was off to a rocky start with a few errors causing the team to give up 6 unanswered runs. For many it was their first game in months, so once the rust was shaken off, they scored 9 runs and locked down their defense to win the first game. Both teams were warmed up for game two, but the Tritons came out scoring early in the game taking a 2-0 lead. However, USD put up 3 runs in later innings and the Triton’s found themselves down 3-2 going into the last inning. The Triton’s showed their resilience, getting early base runners and key at bats from Tyler Kong, who scored the tying run with two outs, and Dylan White with a walk off single to secure the win.
These games were proof that our tryout class not only has talent, but their team chemistry and culture was exactly what we were looking for. With many of those guys being added to the team, we look to make a big impact this year.
4/27/2024 Tritons Complete Crucial Sweep of NAU to Clinch First Playoff Berth in 9 Years
Game 1
Going into this series, the Tritons knew that a series win would give them the best chance for a playoff berth. With that in mind, the Tritons offense went right to work, putting the game away before starting pitcher, Finn Daecher took the mound. The Tritons would score 7 runs in the top of the first, 2 in the second, 4 in the third, 5 in the fourth, and 7 runs again in the fifth, piling up 25 runs on 19 hits on the NAU Lumberjacks’ pitching staff, walking 8 times. The Lumberjacks’ defense was also not doing them any favors as they committed 5 errors. This offensive barrage was a full team effort as every player in the starting lineup had at least one hit and every player scored at least one time. There were six players that drove in at least two runs, but the RBI category was headlined by left fielder Matt Steele, who drove in six runs. The Tritons would finish the game due to mercy by a score of 25-2.
Game 2
After routing the Lumberjacks in the first game, the Tritons’ offense would go ice cold, only being able to manufacture a single run in the entire game, thanks to a leadoff triple by catcher Max Hill and a sacrifice fly by second baseman Landon Lee. Luckily, they had starting pitcher Ethan Adamson on the mound, who induced weak contact all game. Adamson looked untouchable as he continued to have quick inning after quick inning, and eventually he would finish what he started, going all seven innings of the game without allowing a single run. Adamson would only allow 3 hits and 2 walks, without striking out a single batter. He completed this feat on only 76 pitches, making it a ‘mini-Maddux’, and even more impressively, he had woken up sick earlier that morning. After winning a laugher in game 1 in the series, the Tritons would win the second game by a score of 1-0.
Game 3
After two polarizing games for the offense, the Tritons would get right back to their scoring ways, as they scored at least one run in every inning. In total, the Tritons would tally 17 runs on 11 hits and just as many walks. Designated hitter Conner Price and left fielder Matt Steele would each get 3 RBIs in the offensive explosion. With the cushion provided from the offense, the Tritons decided to develop their bullpen, which hadn’t seen much action due to the strength of the starting rotation. A combination of Roland Wen, Kyle Matsuno, Ethan Ou, and Cole Kuznitz got the Tritons through the game. The Tritons would take this game by the score of 17-6, winning by mercy once again in eight innings. This win secured the sweep and despite not knowing it at the time, it secured the Tritons their first playoff berth since 2015.
4/202/2024 Tritons Keep Playoff Hopes Alive Taking Two Out of Three From SDSU
Game 1
The Tritons’ offense would get off to a hot start scoring twice in each of the first three innings, with two key RBI singles from Connor Price. On the mound, coming off of back to back complete game shutouts, was the Tritons’ ace, Finn Daecher, who pitched two scoreless innings before running into trouble in the third and fourth innings, allowing two and three runs respectively. Daecher will would pitch 5.1 innings, giving up 5 runs, 3 of which were earned, 7 hits, and 3 walks, while striking out 7. With the score at 6-5 in favor of the Tritons, they would bring their closer, Caleb Galdston, into the game early for a five-out save. Galdston would end up getting the last five outs of the game, shutting the door on game 1 of this crucial series, and giving the Tritons a 1-0 series lead.
Game 2The second game of the series would be quiet for the first five innings for both offenses, with a lone run being surrendered by starting pitcher Ethan Adamson. However, in the sixth inning, the Aztecs’ offense would wake up by scoring three times and chasing Adamson, who had pitched well up to that point, from the game. Adamson would finish with 5.2 innings pitched, surrendering 6 hits, 4 earned runs, 3 walks, while striking out 2. The Tritons would only be able to score one run in the bottom of the sixth, but the Aztecs would answer back with two more runs of their own in the top of the seventh. The Tritons would lose by a score of 6-1 to the Aztecs and the series would be tied going into the rubber match.
Game 3
With the Tritons’ season and playoff chances on the line, they looked to starting pitcher Ethan Ou, for a strong outing. Ou would pitch efficiently, at one point, retiring 13 straight hitters. The Tritons’ offense would only muster up a run in the third inning on an RBI groundout by first baseman Finn Daecher, and a run in the fifth inning thanks to a triple by catcher Tyler Geraty and another RBI groundout by center fielder Curtis Faletti. Two runs would be more than enough for Ou as he would end up going the distance. He would pitch all 9 innings, only allowing two hits, without giving up a single run or walk, while striking out 6 Aztecs. Most impressively, Ou only needed 94 pitches to complete his outing. Behind Ou’s ‘Maddux’ the Tritons would win the series, taking two out of three from the Aztecs and keeping their playoff hopes alive.
4/6/2024 Tritons Take A Key Series Victory vs. ASU But Leave Yearning a Bit More
Game 1
The Tritons faced off against the Arizona State Sun Devils in the first series of the spring quarter. On the mound for the Tritons was ace pitcher Finn Daecher, coming off of a complete game shutout in his previous start. The Tritons would get off to a hot start in the bottom of the first inning, thanks to a two-run single by Kai Christman. Then in the bottom of the second inning, the Tritons would add another run on an error to make the score 3-0. Three runs would be more than enough for Daecher, who threw his second consecutive complete game shutout, with a pitching line of 7 innings pitched and 9 strikeouts, surrendering 6 hits and just 1 walk. Then on the back of this brilliant outing, the Tritons would win 3-0 to take game 1 of the series.
Game 2
Both offenses in game 2 would get off to a slow start, with the first two innings being scoreless. However, in the home half of the third inning, the Tritons would get a lot of traffic on the bases, cashing in on two wild pitches and an RBI single by Connor Price, bringing the score to 3-0. In the bottom of the fifth inning, with the bases loaded, second baseman Erick Osuna would single, scoring two more to widen the score to 5-0. Starting pitcher Ethan Adamson held the Sun Devils scoreless for 5 innings, while only allowing 3 hits and 1 walk, without striking out a single batter. In the sixth inning, the Sun Devils’ bats would finally wake up, scoring three times to narrow the lead to two runs. Despite giving up another run in the seventh, closer Caleb Galdston would bare down, striking out two hitters to close out the game, earning the save and giving the Tritons their second straight win and guaranteeing them the series win.
Game 3
As per usual, game 3 was a nine-inning affair. Both sides would be held scoreless through the first four innings of the game, until the Tritons once again drew first blood, scoring three times to the tune of four singles, a walk, and an error. Starting pitcher Ethan Ou would maintain the dominance of the Triton starting rotation as he would pitch 6.1 scoreless innings, allowing 4 hits and 3 walks, striking out 5 and leaving the game with a 3-0 lead. The Tritons would add another run on an Alex Margules RBI single to bring the score to 4-0 after seven innings. The bullpen would finish the seventh inning before running into trouble in the eighth where the Sun Devils offense would explode for six runs on a triple, a double, three singles, two walks, and two hit batters. The Sun Devils would add another run in the ninth, as the Tritons’ offense failed to respond in the final two innings, losing by a score of 7-4. Kai Christman had a great series, going 6 for 8 with 3 RBI. The starting rotation had another dominant series, tallying 18.1 innings and not giving up a single run.
Highlights: Finn Daecher has a 21IP straight scoreless inning streak
Tritons are in a prime position for their first playoff berth in over 10 years
3/26/2024 Tritons Squeeze out of Vegas 1-2
Game 1:
With Kyle Matsuno on the bump, the Tritons were given a solid 2 1/3 innings while giving up 3 runs. This was bolstered by a terrific offense that was able to muster up 9 in the first inning. Excellent performances at the plate by Erick Osuna with 3 hits and Tyler Geraty with 2 hits and 3 stolen bases made the final score 15-3 through 5 innings. Cole Kuznitz came in as relief to close out the game.
Game 2:
A hard battle was looming for weeks leading up to this game as history of banter is evident. With Ethan Adamson starting for the Tritons, 3 innings of baseball flew by as he weaseled out of tough situations. An
RBI single off the bat of Kyle Young in the 2nd brought the score up 1-0 in favor of the tritons. Joon Lee came in during the 4th and was also able to compete in order to limit runs coming across. Kyle Young yet again bats in another for the score to become 2-0. However, tides change as clutch at bats and hitting against Lee, following 2 costly balks, put UCSB up 4-2. UCSD offense was quieted the remainder of the game with a final score of 6-2.
Game 3:
In the hopes of a bounceback, bench coach Kyle Young and manager Brandon Imai employ the ace of the pitching staff, Finn Daecher, to heed a 5-0 victory against Cal Miramar. A beautiful game was thrown as 7 scoreless innings on 96 pitches capped off a complete game shutout for the Tritons. Drawn out at bats by every member of the club and clutch hitting by Connor Price, the offense was able to score 5 throughout the game.
2/24/2024 Tritons Take Crucial Sweep Against University of Arizona
Game 1
After a hard fought series at GCU, the Tritons looked to get back on track against the University of Arizona Wildcats. On the bump for the Tritons was Ethan Ou who stymied the Wildcat’s offense, taking a no-hitter through the fourth inning. In total he pitched 5.2 innings while striking out 7, giving up just 3 hits, 2 walks, and 1 run. However the Tritons’ offense was also held scoreless until the bottom of the fourth inning, where a single, a walk, and an error loaded the bases for outfielder Matt Steele, who launched a bases-clearing triple, putting the Tritons up 3-0. Later that inning, Steele would score on a wild pitch to tack on the Tritons’ fourth run. Arizona would make it closer, scoring a run in the sixth and seventh innings respectively making the score 4-2. In response, the Tritons would add one more run on a Nick Bettencourt RBI single in the bottom of the eighth. Closer Caleb Galdston would slam the door on the Wildcats in the ninth, giving the Tritons the victory by a score of 5-2 in game 1 of the series.
Game 2
The Tritons looked to carry the momentum of the previous win into Game 2 of the series. The Tritons offense quickly put themselves up by two from a Connor Price sacrifice fly and a Matt Steele RBI single. Acting as the opener for the Tritons was Caleb Galdston who pitched the first two innings of the game, striking out 1 and giving up 1 hit, 1 walk, and 1 run. The score would remain 2-1 until the bottom of the fifth where the Tritons would add one more run on an RBI single by third baseman Chris Haven. Taking over for Galdston would be Finn Daecher, who dominated the Wildcats for the remaining five innings of the game, surrendering only a single hit, striking out 5, without giving up any walks or runs. The Tritons would win with a final score of 3-1 as their pitching staff continued to shine.
Game 3
With two wins under their belt already, the Tritons were eager to take out the brooms and finish the sweep. Starting pitcher Ethan Adamson pitched a hard fought two innings, surrendering a run in the first inning, before handing the ball to reliever Roland Wen, who coughed up another run in his 1.2 innings of work. With the score at 2-0 in Arizona’s favor, a key fourth inning substitution that brought Matt Steele off the bench would prove vital for the Tritons’ offense as he would hit another signature RBI triple to cut the lead in half. With this new momentum, the Tritons would score twice in the fifth inning on an RBI fielder’s choice by Ben Pajak and a crucial go-ahead RBI single off the bat of Frank Drugge to bring the score to 3-2 Tritons. The score would remain this way as reliever Joon Lee pitched the last 3.1 innings, striking out 2, walking 2, and giving up no runs. The Tritons would win once again, completing the sweep of the Wildcats.
2/9/2024
Tritons Give Nationally Ranked #9 GCU a Run For Their Money
Game 1:
The first game of the series did not go as planned for the Tritons. On the mound for the Tritons was Finn Daecher, with his first start of the season. GCU put pressure on the Tritons from the beginning of the game, scoring twice in the first inning. In the second inning, the Tritons would respond with their own two runs, thanks to a sacrifice fly by first baseman Dustin Jones and an RBI single by shortstop Makai Morisaki. However once again, GCU would score two more times in the bottom half of the inning. Two innings later, the Tritons would score one more time to bring the score to 4-3, but the game was put out of reach as GCU’s offense erupted for six runs. In the fifth inning, the Tritons could only record two outs before giving up three more runs and losing the game by mercy rule 13-3.
Game 2:
The Tritons looked to bounce back in Game 2 of the series and they had the right guy on the bump to do so in Ethan Adamson, who has been the team’s most consistent arm. The Tritons would draw first blood as they scored a run in the top of the first inning, courtesy of a leadoff triple by catcher Tyler Geraty and a single to drive him in by third baseman Chris Haven. The lead would not make it out of the first inning however, as GCU would answer right back with a run of their own in the bottom half of the inning. With the score being tied 1-1, the pitching on both sides began to settle in, as both sides were blanked in the second inning. However, in the third inning, it was GCU that blinked first as they surrendered another run as first basemen Finn Daecher hit the Triton’s second triple of the game, giving the Tritons a slim, one-run lead. Starting pitcher Ethan Adamson continued to shut down GCU’s offense after he was given the lead as he finished his brilliant outing, pitching 5 innings, giving up only 1 unearned run on 2 hits, striking out 6, and not walking a single batter. Although Adamson was out, the Triton’s brought out their closer, Caleb Galdston who continued the Triton’s dominant pitching as he pitched a perfect sixth inning. With a 2-1 lead going into the last inning, Galdston would collect the final three outs of the game, capped off by a sensational diving catch in center field by Curtis Faletti, giving the Tritons their first win over GCU in four years.
Game 3:
Following the big win, the Tritons and GCU would go toe to toe in the rubber match of the series. The Tritons used their momentum from the previous game to jump out to a quick 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning. The score would remain that way until the 3rd inning where both teams would trade blows, scoring one run a piece, bringing the score to 2-1 in favor of the Tritons. Starting pitcher Ethan Ou despite keeping the formidable GCU offense at bay for four innings, surrendered his first three earned runs of the season before giving way to the bullpen two-thirds into the fifth inning. With the score at 4-2 going into the top of the sixth inning, the Tritons manufactured a run with a walk, single, and a bunt single by center fielder Curtis Faletti. Two innings later in the eighth, fortune would find the Tritons again as a botched throw to home by GCU would score the tying run. With this momentum, the Tritons looked to etch out another victory. However in the ninth inning, their luck would run out as they were blanked in the top half of the inning and surrendered the winning run, losing in walk-off fashion. Despite the loss, the Tritons held their heads up high as they proved themselves to be a formidable opponent for anyone.
1/28/2024 UC San Diego Victorious in First Non-Conference Series vs. CSUCI
Game 1:
The Tritons, coming off of two straight blowout wins with scores of 16-2 and 25-3 against UC Berkeley and UC Irvine respectively, looked to continue their roll against CSU Channel Islands. In the bottom of the first inning, despite seeing only 5 pitches the entire inning, the red hot Tritons offense scratched across a run to quickly take a 1-0 lead. Later in the bottom of the third inning, the Tritons would score two more times on a Matt Steele triple, an error, and two singles to make the score 3-0. However, CSUCI would fight back in the next half inning with two runs of their own to cut the lead back down to one and knocking out starting pitcher Ethan Adamson, who had been cruising up until that point. The close score would not last as a two-run single by third basemen Chris Haven would bring the lead back to three in the bottom of the fourth inning. The Tritons would cough up one more run to bring the score to 5-3 and it would stay that way until the bottom of the sixth where a double, hit batter, and a single would set up a bases loaded situation for pinch hitter Nick Bettencourt who hit a bases clearing single as the right fielder had trouble handling the baseball. Pitcher Ethan Ou, acting as the closer once again, quieted the CSUCI offense for the last two innings with the only baserunner being a walk as he acquired his first save of the season in an 8-3 Triton victory.
Game 2:
The second and final game of the series started off with a quiet first inning for both teams. However the next inning, the injury bug would hit the Tritons as starting pitcher Ben Pajak would leave the game due to injury after pitching an inning and a third. CSUCI would score in the top of the second inning and take their first lead of the series. However this lead would not last as the Tritons would score six times in the bottom half of the inning, tallying two walks, two hits, and two catcher’s interferences. The Tritons would score four more times over the next two innings as relief pitcher Finn Daecher settled in pitching two and two thirds innings of scoreless baseball in his season debut. Caleb Galdston had his own impressive season debut as he relieved Daecher, striking out two in his one inning of work. With the score at 10-1, the Tritons only needed to score one more time before winning by mercy and it didn’t take long as a triple by Matt Steele, who had a single, double, and two triples across both games, and a single by Brandon Imai finished the game by a score of 11-1.
1/20/2024 Tritons Rout UCI in Winter Quarter Opener
After only playing one series in the fall, the Tritons were eager to get back onto the field and it showed in their offense early. A patient approach at the plate paid dividends for the Tritons as they walked 6 times over the first two innings of the game. With so much traffic on the bases and some timely hits, the Tritons found themselves up by a score of 8-0 over UCI after two innings. With the game already looking lopsided heading into the third, the Tritons offense kept their foot on the gas, putting up a 16-run barrage, tallying 5 hits and 9 walks, with UCI’s defense committing 2 errors. As the offense was firing on all cylinders, the pitching side was also impressive. Starting pitcher Ethan Adamson pitched well in his 3 innings of work, giving up 2 unearned runs on 3 hits and 1 walk, keeping the momentum on the Tritons’ side on both sides of the ball. UCI would only score one more time as reliever Kyle Matsuno worked out of trouble in his inning of work, striking out 1. In the fifth and final inning, due to time constraints, Ethan Ou slammed the door on UCI as he worked a 1-2-3 inning striking out 2, capping off an overwhelming victory with a score of 25-3. In total, the Tritons’ offense collected 11 hits and walked 18 times, led by first baseman Finn Daecher, who went 4 for 4 with 6 runs driven in.
11/9/2023 Tritons Learn from Season Opener at UC Berkeley
Game 1:
The first game of the fall quarter did not go as planned for the Tritons as they fell to UC Berkeley by a score of 7-0. Starting pitcher Ethan Ou worked in and out of trouble through four innings, allowing one run, three hits, striking out one, and walking two, before giving way to the bullpen. The Tritons only trailed 1-0 going into the fifth inning, however the game would quickly get out of control as 4 walks, 3 singles, and an error in the field led to a six-run inning for Cal. The Tritons’ offense failed to get going as they only mustered up 2 hits by Tyler Geraty and Ben Pajak, who were also the only two hitters in the lineup who didn’t have a strikeout this game.
Game 2:
Following the tough loss in game 1, the Tritons looked to bounce back with a lineup made up entirely of new players that joined the team this year. The new-look Tritons’ offense was silenced for the first two innings, but finally broke through in the third inning, where they ended their nine-inning scoreless streak with a run. With their first lead of the series, the Tritons got the big inning they were looking for in the fourth, scoring 7 times to the tune of 5 hits and 2 walks with Cal’s defense committing 2 costly errors. With starting pitcher Matt Draves cruising through four innings of 1 run ball, allowing 2 hits and striking out 3, the Tritons dominated the first half of the game. However, the 8-0 lead was not safe as Cal stormed back with a run in the bottom half of the fourth and six runs in the fifth inning bringing the score to 8-7. With a slim one-run lead, the Tritons entered the last inning trying to close things out, but Cal had other plans as they tied the game with a run in the bottom of the seventh inning. Going into extra innings, the Tritons failed to score in the top of the eighth, then an error, a walk, and a double in the bottom half of the inning sealed the Tritons’ fate as they lost in walkoff fashion.
Game 3:
Despite dropping the first two games of the series, the Tritons were confident going into this final game, boasting a lineup of the best performers from the first two games. This lineup got off to a hot start with 3 straight singles in a first inning that was capped off by a two-run double by first baseman Nick Aiken. After being silenced in the second inning, the Tritons got right back to work in the third, scratching across 4 runs thanks to a massive bases-clearing triple by the sure-handed shortstop Makai Morisaki and a double that drove him in by center fielder Curtis Faletti. While the offense was firing on all cylinders, starting pitcher Ethan Adamson was working on an impressive outing that ended after four innings where he didn’t allow a hit, with the only baserunners being two walks, while striking out three. With a score of 9-2 going into the sixth inning and the Tritons having learned their lesson from the previous game, they didn’t take their foot off the gas, putting up a seven spot, thanks to 5 hits, including a two-run double by Justin Takano, and 6 walks, putting the game out of reach for good. The Tritons showed their potential this game, winning by a score of 16-2, putting up 16 hits and walking 9 times, while limiting Cal to two runs and a single hit.
Highlight: Chris Haven was named player of the week after going 5-9 on the weekend with 3 RBIs and an OPS of 1.417
