Oregon’s Will Sanford Poised for Key Game in Super Regional Showdown

The No. 11 ranked Oregon baseball team faces a critical challenge as they prepare to meet No. 6 Texas in the Austin Super Regional on June 7 at Disch-Falk Field. With their season on the line, the Ducks (43-17, 20-10 Big Ten) are likely to turn to sophomore Will Sanford, who is anticipated to start Game 2 following a tough 11-3 defeat in Game 1.

This season, Sanford has emerged as a formidable presence on the mound, boasting a record of 9-2 over 16 games, with a 3.46 earned-run average and a career-high 119 strikeouts. His recent outing against Washington State during the Eugene Regional showcased his dominance, although he emphasizes that his competitive approach remains consistent regardless of minor adjustments he may make.

"I think it’s just how I compete out there," Sanford explained. "Even if there’s no fans, even if I’m just playing against our team, I think I’ve done this throughout my career, especially in scrimmages. You can ask any of my teammates. I’m the same animated person when I pitch in scrimmages. So I think it’s just the competitor I am. I just really get amped up."

While his starting role for Game 2 has not been officially confirmed, Sanford is expected to take the mound in what is set to be Oregon's most significant game of the season, in front of a raucous crowd approaching 9,000 fans. He has previously shown his ability to thrive in intense environments, delivering an impressive performance with nine strikeouts and only two hits allowed in a shutout victory over Nebraska during the Big Ten tournament. This season marks a turning point for Sanford, who experienced ups and downs during his freshman year, which included a 6.39 ERA. His teammates have recognized a newfound confidence in his approach. Infielder Ryan Cooney remarked, "The coolest part for me, watching as a teammate and just being behind him, he’s very confident in himself and I think that’s why he performs so well at that level."

For the Ducks to challenge the Longhorns and extend their season, Sanford will need to set the tone early. After a disappointing Game 1, he is ready to embrace the challenge. "I honestly just think it’s really fun to play in those big environments," Sanford said. "Even the one in Nebraska, I thought it was great. Even though there’s 13,000 fans against you, it makes it more fun and you just enjoy it."