Alan Matthews, who is in Southern California for the Angels fanfest, attended the San Diego-Southern California game tonight and called with another glowing report about USD lefthander Brian Matusz. The sophomore struck out 13 over six innings, allowing two runs (one earned) on three hits and two walks, but did not factor in the decision as the Trojans scored four runs against the USD bullpen and went on to win 6-2. Matthews reports that Matusz worked in the 91-92 mph range with his fastball, touching 93, and his secondary stuff drew raves from assembled scouts. Matthews estimated that Matusz’ changeup could rate as a 65 pitch on the 20-80 scouting scale, and his curveball could be a 55. His command was erratic at times, but scouts love his sound delivery and 6-foot-4 frame. The Trojans scored most of their runs against sophomore lefty Ricardo Pecina, but senior righty Anthony Slama made a good impression against the one batter he faced (and retired), running his fastball up to 92.

USC got seven solid innings from starter Ryan Cook, who relied more on deception than on power stuff like Matusz, according to Matthews. Freshman Robert Stock relieved Cook and breezed through the final two innings for his first collegiate save. The lefthanded-hitting Stock, who did not start behind the plate or bat against the lefthanded Matusz, faced the minimum six batters and consistently touched 94 with his fastball from the right side.