Baseball Travels to Wilmington for CAA Series
Charleston, South Carolina – April 4, 2024
Cougars Gear Up for Tough Road Test Against UNC-Wilmington
College of Charleston baseball is set to hit the road this weekend for a crucial Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) series against UNC-Wilmington. The Seahawks currently top the CAA standings with an impressive 6-0 start to conference play, while the Cougars are right behind at 4-2, tied for third place alongside William & Mary. With the stakes high, Charleston will look to continue their winning streak and climb up the standings.
Series Details and Starting Pitchers
The series will kick off on Friday at 6:00 p.m. with right-handed pitcher Jake Brink (4-1, 2.35 ERA) taking the mound for the Cougars against UNC-Wilmington’s RJ Sales (5-1, 3.46 ERA). Saturday’s game at 4:00 p.m. will feature right-hander Aidan Hunter (3-1, 3.18 ERA) for Charleston facing off against Jacob Shafer (2-3, 3.82 ERA) for the Seahawks. The series will conclude on Sunday at 2:00 p.m. with lefty Connor Campbell (4-1, 3.34 ERA) getting the start for the Cougars against Zane Taylor (2-0, 4.50 ERA) for UNC-Wilmington.
Recent Performances
The Cougars are entering the series on a high note, riding a four-game winning streak with impressive offensive displays. In their latest victory over Georgia Southern, Charleston showcased their prowess at the plate with a run-rule win. Key contributors to the team’s success include Dylan Johnson, Kevin Madden, and Trotter Harlan, who have been delivering clutch hits when needed. Cole Mathis, in particular, has been on a tear with three consecutive games hitting home runs.
Player Spotlight
Several Cougar hitters have been shining brightly in recent games, with seven players boasting batting averages above .300. Avery Neaves leads the charge with an impressive .450 average, while Cole Mathis has been a standout performer with a .421 average, three homers, nine runs, and seven RBI in the last five games. The offensive depth of the team will be crucial as they face a formidable Wilmington pitching staff.
Scouting the Seahawks
UNC-Wilmington comes into the series with an 18-11 overall record and a perfect 6-0 mark in CAA play. The Seahawks have been in fine form recently, winning eight of their last ten games, including notable victories over ranked opponents. Junior pitcher RJ Sales anchors the Seahawk rotation with a 5-1 record and a stellar 3.46 ERA. The Seahawks’ offense is spearheaded by sophomore Tanner Thach, who leads the team with a .348 average and 15 home runs on the season.
Series Expectations
With both teams in strong form, the series between College of Charleston and UNC-Wilmington promises to be a thrilling battle on the diamond. Charleston will aim to carry their momentum into enemy territory and secure important wins against a tough conference opponent. Fans can expect a closely contested series with plenty of exciting moments as the two teams vie for position in the CAA standings.
Stay Tuned for Results
Follow along as the Cougars take on the Seahawks in this pivotal CAA series. Stay updated on game results and player performances as College of Charleston looks to make a statement on the road against UNC-Wilmington.