Coming off a hard fought series win against Clemson, the Gamecocks had a rather challenging midweek waiting for them. Carolina was to face Citadel, and USC Upstate in back to back games.
Both opponents have been known to be pretty decent ball clubs that have a history of giving good teams trouble. In fact, last season, both Citadel and USC Upstate took down the Gamecocks in the Midweek. Also, USC Upstate took down Clemson last week 6-3.
Although it was expected by most, for Carolina to get their revenge over both teams this season, losing one of these games was certainly a possibility. Especially after this weekends series against Clemson, which was tighter than expected. However, the Gamecocks had other ideas in mind.
Not only did the Yardcocks win both games, they dominated. Beating the Citadel 8-1 and USC Upstate 19-1.
Carolina’s bats continue to stay hot as the Yardcocks had no trouble scoring runs over the two games. Thus, showing true improvement over the past couple of seasons in the hitting department. Carolina’s bats have not consistently stayed hot through the mid week in previous season, so fingers crossed they keep up the intensity.
Pitching was also phenomenal over the two games, and I believe this is really going to be what makes Carolina a true threat in the SEC this season. So far this season, Citadel and USC Upstate have been impressive offensively. The Citadel has averaged 9 runs a game and USC Upstate has averaged 7 (coming into their game against South Carolina). To allow only one run in each game really says something about your pitching and your bullpen.
This Yardcocks team just continues to impress and has really just become so fun to watch. So far they have conquered each challenge they have been faced with. We’ll see if they can continue to do so as SEC play inches closer and closer.