The South Carolina Gamecocks clinched a 6-3 victory over the Milwaukee Panthers on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Founders Park, securing the series win. The Gamecocks will aim for a series sweep in the final game on Sunday.
Gamecocks move to 7-0#Gamecocks | #ForeverToThee pic.twitter.com/TrsocjXaj9
— Gamecock Baseball (@GamecockBasebll) February 22, 2025
After a scoreless first inning, South Carolina's offense ignited in the second. The inning began with Jase Woita drawing a walk, followed by Talmadge LeCroy being hit by a pitch, and Henry Kaczmar walking to load the bases. Freshman KJ Scobey then delivered a two-run single up the middle, putting the Gamecocks ahead. Jordan Carrion added an RBI single, and Nathan Hall contributed a sacrifice fly, extending the lead to 4-0. Carrion and Scobey combined for three hits and three RBIs in six at-bats.
On the mound, Matthew Becker showcased his pitching prowess. Building on his previous performance, Becker pitched 6.1 innings, allowing two runs on three hits while striking out eight and issuing no walks. Over his first two starts this season, Becker has accumulated 17 strikeouts without a single walk.
Milwaukee managed to score in the fourth inning due to a sun-assisted double and an RBI single by Tyler Bickers. They added solo home runs in the sixth and ninth innings, but South Carolina's early lead proved insurmountable. The Gamecocks' bullpen maintained the advantage, with Brandon Stone earning his first save by pitching 2.2 innings, allowing one run on one hit, and recording a strikeout.
Looking ahead, South Carolina will send Jake McCoy to the mound for his second start of the season in Sunday's series finale. The Gamecocks aim to complete the sweep and continue their strong start to the season.
Check out the postgame interview from head coach Paul Mainieri and pitcher Matthew Becker: