The Oregon Ducks opened the 2026 NCAA Eugene Regional with a commanding 14‑2 victory over Yale, turning the first round into a showcase of power and poise.
Offensive fireworks
Oregon collected 18 hits, scattering doubles and singles that kept the scoreboard ticking. Angel Laya went 4‑for‑5 with two doubles and two RBIs, while Drew Smith finished 4‑for‑5 with an RBI. Brayden Jaksa added a 3‑for‑4 performance with two doubles and two RBIs, and Ryan Cooney contributed two doubles and three RBIs. Naulivou Lauaki Jr. capped the onslaught with a three‑run homer, his 13th in the last 25 games.
Pitching precision
Starter Cal Scolari battled through 4.1 scoreless innings, striking out five while navigating five hits, five walks and a hit batter. Reliever Toby Twist shut the door with three innings of shutout baseball, fanning five and allowing just one hit and a walk. The staff stranded 13 of Yale’s baserunners, underscoring a disciplined approach on the mound.
Looking ahead
The win propels Oregon into a Saturday night showdown with Washington State at 6 p.m., a match that will determine the regional’s next step. Earlier in the day, Oregon State and Yale will meet in an elimination game at 1 p.m., setting the stage for a potential rematch later in the weekend.