A program reborn
USC baseball has captured its first NCAA super regional berth in 21 years, a milestone that feels like a rebirth for a program that has been forced to play its home games in a patchwork of venues while Dedeaux Field undergoes construction. The Trojans' journey to the Chapel Hill Super Regional is as much about perseverance as it is about talent.
Coach Andy Stankiewicz, now in his fourth season as head coach, has methodically rebuilt the Trojans from a perennial under‑performer into a contender. His ability to navigate the constraints of a partially renovated stadium and limited home‑field practice space has earned the respect of players and fans alike.
The core that stayed
A handful of upperclassmen chose to remain with the program despite the lack of a permanent home field. Abbrie Covarrubias, Kevin Takeuchi, Andrew Lamb and Dean Carpentier formed the backbone of a squad that refused to let uncertainty erode its confidence.
A historic run
The Trojans dominated the College Station Regional with 55 runs across four losers’‑bracket victories, including a 21‑run outburst against SEC power Texas A&M in the regional final. Their 32‑1 home record at Dedeaux Field set a new school benchmark, and the team eclipsed the 40‑win mark for the first time since 2005.
Augie Lopez, the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player, summed up the team's sentiment: "I’m grateful to be part of a group that brought USC back to the super regional. This is just the beginning."
Looking ahead
Now the Trojans travel to Chapel Hill to face North Carolina, a team that represents a new challenge but also a familiar opportunity. A win would propel USC into the College World Series for the first time since 2001, a feat that would resonate far beyond the confines of the ballpark.