Sometimes, the simplest stories are the most effective.
Mason Edwards faced off against the top strikeout leader and the final team to make it to the Big Ten Tournament – and he emerged victorious.
On Friday, USC’s ace pitched four scoreless innings against Michigan State, shutting them out while the Trojans celebrated a 7-0 win at Charles Schwab Field in Omaha, Nevada. A rain delay lasting 1 hour and 42 minutes interrupted the game, but it didn’t break the Trojans’ early lead.
Edwards combined with three relief pitchers to limit Michigan State to just six hits, marking USC’s tenth shutout of the season, their best performance since 1971.
Kevin Takeuchi contributed two doubles, and both Jack Vasser and Avery Covarrubias drove in two runs each, forming an offensive strategy that focused on clutch hitting, as USC scored all its runs with two outs.
Walking away with six strikeouts, Edwards allowed only two hits and maintained a 4-0 lead before the rain caused an early exit in the fourth inning. “As a starting pitcher, you always want to pitch four innings or more,” Edwards reflected later on the Big Ten Network. “So obviously I’m not too happy about going out in the fourth inning, but that’s okay. We have other guys who can step up.”
USC coach Andy Stankiewicz agreed, emphasizing that pulling Edwards was a strategic decision due to the delayed weather. He noted the Trojans (43-14) were still looking to play more games in the postseason.
On the other side, Michigan State (24-32) struggled, going 0-for-9 with runners in scoring position and leaving ten on base. Chase Herrell from USC stepped up with a crucial play in the seventh inning, securing the win with a ground ball caught by Kamarie Thomas.
What It Means
This win was a vital step for USC in their pursuit of becoming one of the 16 teams selected to host an NCAA Tournament regional. Hosting could significantly benefit a team that set a school record of 32-1 at home. With the Trojans starting the week at No. 8 in RPI, they’re in a strong position—historically, 99.5% of teams finishing in the top eight since 1999 have earned hosting honors.
Turning Point
The Trojans’ offensive magic began in the first inning. After Augie Lopez issued a walk, Takeuchi hit a double to left-center, followed by a scoring triple from Isaac Cadena, giving them a 2-0 advantage. That was more than enough support for Edwards.
Did You See That?
Takeuchi showcased his skills by backhanding a ball near the foul line, making a strong throw across the infield that led to scoring the winning run in the bottom of the eighth.
MVP: Mason Edwards
Edwards navigated several tricky moments, effectively leaving runners stranded on second base during the first, third, and fourth innings. “At this point in the season, it’s important to fill it in,” he shared about his approach. “Teams know my pitching style and have their game plans, so keeping things in play and supporting the defense is key. Reducing my pitch count is also vital to going deep into games.”
To the Next
The Trojans are set to face either UCLA or Purdue in the semifinals on Saturday at noon PDT, which will air on the Big Ten Network.
