Nolan McCarthy pulls back Arkansas home run to maintain shutout in Top 2nd
Kentucky baseball is off to a much better start in every phase of their second SEC Tournament game against Arkansas.
The ‘Cats shut down the Razorbacks in the first inning and added two of their own in the bottom thanks to some puzzling defensive errors. Then, in the top of the second, an Arkansas batter sent a ball deep over the centerfield wall, but Kentucky center fielder Nolan McCarthy reached back and snagged the would-be home run with a remarkable effort.
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Take a look at the incredible grab right here:
Well, you couldn’t ask for a much better start if you’re UK head coach Nick Mingione. The Wildcats turned in about as disappointing an effort as possible in the opener against No. 11 seed LSU, who bounced Kentucky 11-0 on Wednesday morning. Luckily, the ‘Cats started out in the double elimination pool, so they get another effort.
Now, against the best pitcher in the country in Hagen Smith, it’s him who looks flustered early and not the Kentucky lineup. Meanwhile, the Kentucky fielders are doing what Arkansas just can’t seem to do and making plays to keep the Hogs off the scoreboard.
The SEC Pitcher of the Year that many consider the best left-hander in the country tossed 14 strikeouts versus Kentucky during their matchup on May 3. But after scoring two runs in the first inning to take an early lead in the game, the Razorback ace was yanked from the game following the second inning.
Just after the inning where Nolan McCarthy made his wonder-catch, Mingione hopped on the broadcast to discuss the exemplary defensive work from his center fielder.
“Oh man, anytime you can take run off the board for the other team it’s about as good as it gets right?” said Mingione, who then recounted the conversation between he and McCarthy. “I said, ‘Nolan it looked like you surprised yourself.’ He goes, ‘Coach I’ve never done that in my life.’” I said ‘well you just did, man.’”
Mingione also gave his seal of approval for how the game started: “I mean if you told me we’d be up 2-0 starting into the third against these guys I would say sign me up,” Mingione said. “So far so good, like the way our guys are competing.”