Game of the Week: Cal State Fullerton at UCSB
College Baseball Showdown from March 29-31
The Gauchos raised the level of their game last weekend — sweeping San Jose State by scores of 9-2, 4-3, and 11-1 — just in time to gain some confidence heading into the Big West season. They open up against the most storied team in the conference. Fullerton has made 26 consecutive appearances in the NCAA tournament, winning four national championships, and has sent such players as the Dodgers’ Justin Turner into the major leagues. The Titans (9-12) got off to a slow start this year, but they handed top-ranked Oregon State its first home loss in 23 games. Further incentive for the visitors is the memory of Augie Garrido, the Hall of Fame coach who put Fullerton on the map; he died two weeks ago. The Gauchos (9-11-1) hope for repeat performances from their weekend starters — freshman lefthander Jack Dashwood, sophomore right-hander Chris Lincoln, and senior right-hander Stevie Ledesma — who were solid against San Jose State. Thu.-Fri.: 3pm; Sat.: 2pm. Caesar Uyesaka Stadium, UCSB. $5-$8. Call 893-UCSB (8272) or visit ucsbgauchos.com.