David Sandlin shares emotional motivation after Oklahoma advances to CWS Finals

Oklahoma pitcher David Sandlin shared an emotional piece of extra motivation he carries with him after a dominating day against Texas A&M. Sandlin had an incredible day on the mound to propel the Sooners into the CWS Finals, pitching seven innings and allowing just five hits and one earned run — while giving up one walk and earning 12 strikeouts.

David Sandlin on Oklahoma advancing, playing for his sister

“There’s no better feeling in the world,” said Sandlin on reaching the CWS Finals. “Blessings from God for our team to fight all year. We’ve been doing it all year — people been counting us out and we finally get to show them what we’re made of on the biggest stage. So I’m excited.”

Sandlin was then asked how he was able to be so effective in the game, and how the Oklahoma offense has managed to build leads in every game they’ve played in Omaha.

“Switch up some things mentally, attacking the hitters,” explained Sandlin. “We knew we had a game plan going in, all I had to do was execute it to the best of my ability. Jimmy, Coach called a great game back there and I just did what I could to give my team a chance to win.

“I like to think we’re the best offense in the nation. Statistically we’re up there. These guys go out there, execute… every day. Every time we’re out there on the field. And when you’re a pitcher and you have that lead it’s really easy to go out there and throw.”

He closed his on-field interview with a touching moment where he was asked about his sister and biggest fan, Holli. Sandlin’s sister passed away last month after battling cancer, and the Sooners’ star makes sure to play games like he knows she’s watching still.

“I know she’s tuned in to every game now, she gets to watch all that. She hasn’t got to be here all year. So every time I go out there I get to play for her, and play for a higher power.”