If you would have told me the South Carolina/Clemson series would come down to Sunday's matchup in Founders Park, I would have told you one thing:
"Go figure."
The Gamecocks stole the Friday night game by scoring two unearned runs off Charlie Barnes, who pitched a tremendous game that came down to a dropped fly ball in right field. The Tigers were as cold as at the plate as the chill in the air Friday night.
Then, in Saturday's round two, Seth Beer's legendary blast ended the Tigers scoring drought.
It looked as though South Carolina pitcher Wil Crowe would have a tough day, but Crowe was able to settle in for six innings. He allowed four earned runs but was still in line for the win.
But Saturday's game was a minefield for big plays.
It started in the first with Beer's home run that will be talked about among the Clemson faithful for years, possibly decades. The sophomore now has home runs in each year that he's faced the Gamecocks. I thought the bomb he hit during Friday's game last year in Founder's Park couldn't be topped.
But Beer definitely topped it Saturday.
South Carolina answered, though. Jonah Bride hit his first home run of the season over the baby monster in left field at Fluor Field, which is meant to mimic the Green Monster at Fenway Park in Boston.
It was a super regional atmosphere in early March. Something that has become normal when these two teams meet.
The Tigers were sure the game was out of reach after plating three runs in the ninth inning, but of course, South Carolina had to cause a little bit of drama.
Again, it was South Carolina third baseman Jonah Bride shooting a ball down the third base line. Clemson third baseman Patrick Cromwell bobbled it, allowing Matt Williams to score. Jacob Olson rounded third, but he was gunned down at the plate. This allowed Clemson to preserve a one-run lead.
Clemson pitcher Ryley Gilliam had the last laugh when he struck out Alex Destino looking to end the ball game, making Sunday's game determine the winner of the series.
Go figure.
South Carolina right-hander Adam Hill will take the mound in an attempt to earn his victory of the year. Hill has pitched well in both starts against UNC-Greensboro and Wright State but has taken losing decision in both games.
Clemson will send Alex Eubanks to the bump. Eubanks will be looking for his second victory on the season, after getting back on the right track last Sunday in a 3-0 victory over Elon.
The series has lived up to the hype. There's certainly not a better rivalry in college baseball. My inner baseball fan can't wait for first pitch tomorrow at 1:30 p.m. And guess what? Game three will probably live up to the hype and more.
Go figure.
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