6 hours ago 2

Oregon Ducks looking for 'PK Park Magic' to carry through regional

When it comes to crowd noise and atmospheres that can scare opponents, Autzen Stadium is one of the best places in the country. Matthew Knight Arena and its predecessor, McArthur Court, are also places that can intimidate visitors.

One can add PK Park to that list as a venue opponents just don't like to step into.

It's hard to believe that the facility is nearly 20 years old, but it's getting to show out a bit in these NCAA regionals. Having the Ducks play well and win also helps. Oregon is definitely playing well in this postseason with wins over Washington State and Yale. The Ducks have given a reason for the crowd to make itself known and be a factor.

It was a big factor in the 4-0 win over the Cougars Saturday night as it seemed to propel Oregon starting pitcher Will Sanford to strike out each and every WSU batter. It wasn't quite every hitter, but he did have 14 strikeouts in just 6 1/3 innings, and the capacity crowd played a big part.

"There is no being tired with a crowd like that," Sanford said after the game. "It was just pure adrenaline. It was great. I love it."

It might have been difficult for Sanford to fully embrace the unique environment as he was right in the middle of it, but for left fielder Jax Gimenez, it was a different experience, despite having little action in the field due to Sanford's elite showing.

"(It got a little boring) especially sitting in left field, you're just sitting there and watching," he said. "With that crowd and how good he (Sanford) was on the mound. It was nice to be able to sit back and enjoy it. That environment PK brought with the crowd and with how competitive Will was is unmatched. It's the best in the country."

Unfortunately, that wasn't the case last season as the Ducks were out with two quick losses to Utah Valley and Cal Poly. But here in 2026, Oregon is one win away from advancing to a Super Regional for the first time since 2023. The program is still looking for its first Super Regional win and a trip to the Men's College World Series.

A Super Regional at PK Park in 2026 probably isn't in the cards, as Oregon will most likely have to travel to Texas, should the Ducks make it that far. The Longhorns are currently in the same position as the Ducks, needing one more win to advance, but there's still plenty of baseball left to be played.

The Ducks will play either Washington State or Oregon State on Sunday night with a trip to the Super Regionals on the line. Oregon has to win once, while either the Cougars or the Beavers has to win twice in order to advance.

Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.

This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Oregon Ducks thriving on PK Park energy in Eugene Regional

Read Entire Article