San Diego Avoids Elimination, Cruise by Aztecs 6-3

The Torero’s played some of their best baseball  at one of the most opportune times this evening.  In an elimination game, San Diego defeated San Diego State 6 to 3 to knock the Aztecs out of the tournament field.

The Torero’s had a big 5th inning to take the lead from San Diego State, which they never gave back. Dillion Checkel started things off for San Diego by singling up the middle, which was followed by AJ Robinson being hit by a pitch. After Kris Bryant flied out, Austin Bailey was walked to load the bases. Connor Joe was then walked to bring in Checkel and cut the Aztecs lead to one. Austin Green then singled to right field to bring in two runs and take the lead from SDSU. Andrew Daniel hit a sacrifice fly to bring in Joe, and Green scored off a throwing error to extend the lead to 5-2.

San Diego’s starting pitcher Dylan Covey had a quality outing for the Torero’s in this game. He pitched 7.2 innings and gave up three earned runs. Walks were the only thing that got him in trouble in this one, Covey had four of them this evening. He was clutch when the Torero’s needed him, and pitched fantastic from the fifth inning on, after the Torero’s established a decent lead.

Golden Spikes semifinalist Kris Bryant was able get his first hit of the NCAA tournament this afternoon. Bryant reached on a single to shortstop. Bryant will need to pick it up offensively, or it will be awfully difficult for the Torero’s to advance past either Cal Poly or UCLA.

The Torero’s will take on the loser of UCLA and Cal Poly, which is being played later this evening. This second elimination game will be played tomorrow at 2 PM PT, and will once again be played at Jackie Robinson Park in Los Angeles. The game can be viewed on ESPN3.