South Carolina uses big run-scoring inning to beat USC Upstate
The Gamecocks got it done in Greenville, South Carolina, against USC Upstate, winning 14-8 on Tuesday. It was a big day for the offense with a nine-run fourth inning being the highlight.
Freshman Eddie Copper started on the mound for South Carolina (16-5, 1-2 SEC). Copper pitched two innings with two strikeouts, giving up just four hits and two runs.
To relieve him, freshman Tyler Pitzer pitched two innings, giving up no runs, no hits, and only one walk.
Another freshman, Parker Marlatt, came in to relieve Pitzer and also successfully stopped USC Upstate’s offense. Marlatt pitched one inning with no hits and no runs scored.
Tyler Dean replaced Marlatt on the mound and gave up three hits and five runs. But Dean struggled, pitching no strikeouts, and was replaced by Ty Good.
As the Spartans started scoring runs, Good was unable to stop them as well. Good pitched to three batters, giving up two hits and one run.
Chris Veach came to the mound, saving the day for South Carolina. Veach pitched 2.2 innings, striking out three batters and not allowing a run to be scored against the Gamecocks.
Lastly, passionate pitcher Garrett Gainey finished the game for South Carolina. Gainey faced just three batters, pitching two strikeouts.
Starting the game off with a bang, Cole Messina homered over the left field wall in the first inning. Messina, who has been struggling at the plate, went 4-for-5 against the Spartans, including an RBI double in the fourth.
After getting walked three times, Will Tippett scored three runs against the Spartans. The Gamecocks were aggressive with base running and got themselves in scoring position.
Accordingly, Ethan Petry also found the outfield wall to continue on a hot fourth inning after his own batting slump. During the fourth inning, the Gamecocks got hot, scoring 8 runs to extend their lead.
Another Gamecock, Blake Jackson, continued to shine, hitting a home run with three RBIs. Jackson scored three runs against the Spartans and has been a dominant addition to South Carolina’s lineup.
However, one Gamecock who struggled was Talmadge LeCroy. When at the plate, LeCroy went 0-for-5.
Eventually, the Spartans started to catch up to South Carolina due to pitching struggles, but the Gamecocks overcame.
RELATED: South Carolina-USC Upstate Box Score
Up Next: The Gamecocks will take on Vanderbilt Commodore (18-3, 3-0 SEC) this weekend at Founders Park. First pitch for Friday’s game is set for 7 p.m., and the game will be available to watch on SEC Network Plus.
