USC Upstate Baseball Rallies for Comeback Victory Against UNC Asheville

USC Upstate baseball team celebrating a comeback victory

News Summary

USC Upstate baseball achieved a crucial 7-5 comeback win against UNC Asheville, scoring four runs in the ninth inning. This victory bolsters their chances for a conference championship and a possible No. 1 seed in the Big South Conference Tournament. Key contributions came from Scott Newman and Preston Lucas, supported by a strong pitching performance from Cooper Ellingworth and Max Bianchini. Earlier this week, they also triumphed 16-0 over the same opponent, showcasing their offensive strength and solidifying their position for the postseason.

Spartanburg, SC – USC Upstate baseball secured a critical 7-5 comeback victory over UNC Asheville on Friday afternoon at Greenwood Baseball Field, enhancing their chances for a conference championship and positioning them for a potential No. 1 seed in the upcoming Big South Conference Tournament. The win was pivotal as the Spartans entered the ninth inning trailing by two runs.

In a thrilling finish, the Spartans rallied to score four runs in the final frame, showcasing resilience and determination. The game-tying run came from a balk by UNC Asheville’s relief pitcher, Matthew Hall, which allowed the initial runner to advance. Redshirt sophomore centerfielder Scott Newman then hit a sinking line drive, successfully tying the game, while junior catcher Preston Lucas delivered the decisive blow with a double that brought Newman home for the go-ahead run. To further bolster their lead, junior second baseman Gage Griggs contributed an insurance run with a two-out double that scored Lucas.

The pitching duo of sophomore Cooper Ellingworth and redshirt sophomore Max Bianchini played a crucial role in the Spartans’ comeback. Over the span of 7.0 innings out of the bullpen, they limited UNC Asheville to just four hits and one run, striking out five batters. Max Bianchini, recording his fifth win of the season, demonstrated solid performance under pressure, helping to maintain the team’s momentum as they approached postseason play.

This victory comes on the heels of an impressive 16-0 run-rule triumph over UNC Asheville earlier in the week, which was played over seven innings and allowed USC Upstate to clinch a first-round bye in the Big South Conference tournament as well as securing a top-two seed. In that game, the Spartans’ pitching staff, led by Amp Phillips and Braden Consaul, stifled the Bulldogs with a dominant performance, allowing only two hits throughout the contest.

The offensive display in the 16-0 victory was equally notable, as nine players from USC Upstate recorded at least one hit. Redshirt junior first baseman Jake Armsey standout with three hits and three RBIs, while sophomore shortstop Vance Sheahan matched his performance with three hits and three RBIs of his own. Additionally, Scott Campbell shone with five RBIs, underscoring the Spartans’ offensive prowess leading into their critical matchup against UNC Asheville.

As USC Upstate prepares for the upcoming Big South Conference Tournament, their recent successes highlight the team’s collective effort both offensively and defensively. This latest comeback reinforces the Spartans’ competitive edge and resilience, making them a formidable opponent as they aim for the conference title.

With the momentum from these recent victories, USC Upstate is poised to continue their quest for success in the Big South Conference, leaving fans hopeful for a strong showing in the tournament ahead.