Jordan Montgomery pitched a complete game shut out, and South Carolina staved off elimination in Game 2 of the super regionals Sunday afternoon. For the second consecutive day Carolina jumped on the Tarheel starter and chased him from the game.
South Carolina put together good at bats over the weekend, and that has been key to their success. Those quality at bats have led to timely hitting. One key for Monday will be the good at bats continuing.
The importance of Montgomery’s performance cannot be understated. UNC hadn’t been shut out in 96 games. On Sunday Gumby did just that, singlehandedly. Even more impressively, Monty overcame 3 errors.
Speaking of errors, South Carolina’s defense hasn’t been great. This team hasn’t had the suffocating defense of past years’ teams, and that deficiency has reared it’s head again. To advance on Monday Carolina will have to minimize those errors.
Montgomery’s performance has given the Cocks a real shot at Omaha. Many teams can force a third game, but few have anything left in the tank to fight with. Because of Gumby’s outing (and Belcher’s too) the bullpen is ready to go.
Westmoreland and Webb should both be good for a few innings, so you have to think Wynkoop only needs five or six good innings. Colby should be available for a right on right situation too.
One game, anything is possible. Should be fun.
Posted with Blogsy
