Undefeated Trojans Visit Cal Poly to Open Series

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. (Interstat) — The undefeated and surging Southern California Trojans put their perfect record on the line Thursday when they open a four-game series against the Cal Poly Mustangs at Robin Baggett Stadium.

The Trojans (7-0), off to their best start in years, arrive after sweeping a three-game set from Rice last weekend. USC has outscored opponents 49-12 over its last five games.

A key to that dominance has been starter Andrew Johnson, who is expected to take the mound Thursday. The right-hander was stellar in his last outing, a 4-2 win over Rice on Sunday, allowing one earned run on four hits with six strikeouts over five innings. Designated hitter Augie Lopez provided the power in that victory, going 2 for 3 with a home run and three RBIs.

Cal Poly (4-3) looks to rebound after dropping two of three at home to Washington State, including a 5-4 loss on Monday. The Mustangs will counter with right-hander Carson Turnquist, who was effective in a relief role against the Cougars on Feb. 23, giving up one earned run on two hits with four strikeouts over four innings.

The Mustangs showed offensive pop earlier in the season, scoring 16 runs in a win at Campbell on Feb. 14, but managed just seven total runs in the two losses to Washington State. Infielder Gavin Spiridonoff hit a home run in Monday’s defeat.

Interstat’s game simulator projects a high-scoring affair, favoring USC 8-5.

The series continues with games Friday, Saturday and Sunday in San Luis Obispo before both teams embark on extended non-conference stretches. USC will host UC Irvine next Tuesday, while Cal Poly welcomes Pepperdine.