COLUMBIA Baseball Sweeps Double Dip over Vanderbilt
The University of South Carolina baseball team achieved an impressive doubleheader sweep against Vanderbilt, emerging victorious with an 8-4 win in the first game, followed by an 8-3 triumph in game two in the SEC home opener at Founders Park on Saturday afternoon (March 23).
Game One Highlights
Eli Jones showcased a flawless performance through six innings, allowing Carolina to secure a 2-0 lead after RBI’s from Kennedy Jones and Ethan Petry in the third inning. Despite Vanderbilt scoring two runs in the seventh, Carolina responded strongly by scoring five runs in the bottom of the frame. Ethan Petry’s hit to deep center resulted in three runs after the Commodore centerfielder dropped the ball. Cole Messina and Talmadge LeCroy also contributed with run-scoring singles in that inning. Eli Jones only allowed one hit in 6.1 innings, striking out four and conceding two runs with a walk. Chris Veach claimed the win with two strikeouts in 2.1 innings, while Garrett Gainey secured his fourth save by closing out the game.
Game Two Recap
In the second game, Petry kickstarted Carolina’s momentum with a homer in the second inning. Although Vandy managed to put up single runs in the second, third, and fourth innings, Carolina rallied back with a strong performance. A crucial 6-4-3 double play capped the top of the fifth inning, setting the stage for a dynamic 4-run bottom of the fifth. Key hits from Blake Jackson and Cole Messina, who hit a two-run homer, propelled Carolina to a 5-3 lead. Petry continued his stellar performance by hitting another homer in the sixth inning, with Tyler Causey following up with a homer to left field. Petry sealed the victory with an RBI single in the seventh. Petry finished the nightcap with a flawless 3-for-3 performance, including three RBI and two runs scored. Messina also made a significant contribution with two RBIs. Ty Good secured the win on the mound with three strikeouts in 2.2 innings, while Gainey claimed his second save of the day with four strikeouts in 2.1 hitless innings of relief.
Postgame Notes
- Petry now boasts 33 career home runs, placing him tied for 15th in Carolina history.
- Petry has reached base in the last 33 games dating back to last season.
- Carolina’s doubleheader sweep marks the first time since the team defeated Missouri in two games on March 25, 2023.
- Garrett Gainey has 23 strikeouts and a 0.64 ERA in 14 innings, with four saves this season.
- Dylan Brewer accumulated two hits and three runs scored in the doubleheader.
Upcoming Match
Carolina and Vanderbilt will conclude the three-game series on Sunday afternoon (March 24) at 1:30 p.m. at Founders Park. The game will be streamed on SEC Network Plus.