Travis Bazzana sets single-game stolen base record in dominate Beaver victory

OMN+Sports

OMN Sports

Sophomore second-baseman Travis Bazzana swiped five bases in Tuesday’s 8-2 victory against Seattle University (11-22), setting a new record for the Beavers (25-11).

The Beaver baseball record books have been ignited recently, with players like junior Garret Forrester and Bazzana making their mark. Forrester has shown impressive plate discipline, earning himself a spot in second place with 131 walks, only trailing first overall pick and Golden Spikes award winner Adley Rutschman (156 from 2017-19). 

Bazzana’s incredible speed and base-running abilities were on full display Tuesday night as he managed to steal an impressive five bases. “I had no idea, I thought it would be six, I was like, whatever, just keep running,” Bazzana said on his historic evening.

These outstanding performances not only show the skill and talent of the Beavers but also serve as a reminder of the rich history of Beaver baseball and the many great athletes who have come before them.

“We took care of business very well,” said head coach Mitch Canham. “What impressed me most was how the guys ran the bases. Guys moving around being active and present can put a lot of pressure on the defense.” 

The Redhawks would open up the game by scoring in the first inning thanks to a shaky start from freshman starting pitcher Nelson Keljo. Although a rough first inning, the Beaver pitching staff was solid the rest of the evening.

A slew of Beaver pitchers entered the game, pitching a collective gem. Six Beaver pitchers tossed nine strikeouts, two earned runs, and 11 hits.

“All the arms did a great job coming in, and getting a handful of different looks, the intensity was in the right place and we love to see that,” Canham said.

Oregon State’s pitching staff is currently fourth in the nation and first in the PAC-12 with a 1.18 WHIP (Walks and Hits per Inning Pitched).

There was no looking back for the Beavers from there. Forrester and sophomores Mason Guerra and Reuben Cedillo all had two runs batted in and combined for five hits.

Winners of seven straight, the Beavers are once again nationally ranked sitting in the #21 spot. This is the first time they have had a number next to their name since March 6.

“It’s always one game at a time,” Canham said. “It comes down to pitching and defense. Just have to make sure we keep up the offense, running the bases, and communicating and we got a really good shot this weekend.”

Up next, the Beavers travel to Tempe, Arizona as they take on the leaders of the PAC-12, #19 Arizona State. The first game is Friday at 6:30 p.m.

 

Was this article helpful?
YesNo