OMAHA, Neb. — The No. 8 Oregon State Beavers opened their 2025 Men’s College World Series campaign with a dramatic flourish on Friday, June 13, securing a 4-3 walk-off victory over the Louisville Cardinals at Charles Schwab Stadium. The thrilling finish marked a memorable start for the Beavers (48-14-1), who needed every bit of fight to overcome a late-game rally from Louisville (40-23).
For Oregon State, the walk-off win held particular historical significance. It was reported as the Beavers’ first walk-off victory in their eight trips to the Men’s College World Series, adding another layer of drama to an already tense opening game in Omaha.
Dramatic Ninth Inning Decides Contest
The game remained a tight, low-scoring affair throughout, primarily dominated by strong pitching performances from both sides. However, the tension escalated significantly in the ninth inning. Louisville managed to break through against Oregon State right-hander Kellan Oakes, plating runs in the top half of the inning to tie the game at 3-3, setting the stage for a winner-take-all bottom of the ninth.
With the game hanging in the balance, the Oregon State offense delivered when it mattered most. Shortstop Aiva Arquette, ranked as MLB Pipeline’s No. 6 Draft prospect, led off the potential winning rally with a single with one out. This brought outfielder Gavin Turley, another highly-regarded prospect ranked No. 78 by MLB Pipeline, to the plate. Turley did not disappoint, lacing a double to left field that allowed Arquette to race home from first base, sealing the 4-3 walk-off victory and sending the Beavers’ dugout and fans into a frenzy.
Pitching Duel Sets the Tone
The early narrative of the game was defined by a compelling pitching duel between two notable arms. Oregon State’s freshman right-hander, Dax Whitney, an All-American, took the mound for the Beavers and delivered a stellar performance. Whitney navigated the Louisville lineup for 5.1 innings, surrendering just one run on three hits while striking out an impressive nine batters. His ability to command the strike zone and limit hard contact kept the Cardinals’ offense in check through the middle innings.
Across the diamond, Louisville countered with Patrick Forbes, who is recognized as a top 2025 MLB Draft prospect. Forbes also provided his team with valuable innings, engaging in a strategic battle with the Oregon State hitters. While the final decision would come down to the bullpens, the early innings showcased the talent on display from both starting pitchers, highlighting why both teams earned their place in Omaha.
Tournament Implications and Future Matchups
The victory propels the No. 8 Oregon State Beavers into the winner’s bracket of their side of the College World Series bracket. Their next challenge is scheduled for Sunday, June 15, where they will face the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers, who enter the matchup with an impressive 54-11 record. This winner’s bracket game offers the Beavers an opportunity to move one step closer to the championship series.
For the Louisville Cardinals, the tough opening loss means they will now navigate the challenging elimination bracket. Their next game will see them square off against the Arizona Wildcats in a must-win scenario. The pressure is now firmly on Louisville to string together victories to keep their College World Series hopes alive.
Key Players Deliver Under Pressure
The game ultimately came down to key plays from key players. While Whitney’s performance on the mound was crucial in keeping the game close, the offensive heroics belonged to Aiva Arquette and Gavin Turley in the final frame. Their clutch hitting, particularly Turley’s walk-off double, underscored their potential and provided the dramatic conclusion that is a hallmark of the Men’s College World Series. Arquette’s ranking as the No. 6 prospect and Turley’s at No. 78 on MLB Pipeline’s draft board highlight the caliber of young talent that is defining this year’s tournament in Omaha.
The opening game provided a thrilling start to the 2025 MCWS, setting a high bar for excitement and showcasing the competitive nature of the teams vying for college baseball’s ultimate prize. Oregon State’s hard-fought walk-off win gives them valuable momentum as they advance deeper into the tournament.
