After a 10-game winning streak, the South Carolina baseball team is now 0-2 this week following a 3-2 loss to Missouri (17-5).
No. 7 South Carolina (17-5) came into Friday night’s SEC showdown with an undefeated conference record following a sweep of Kentucky last weekend. Following a loss to Winthrop on Tuesday though, South Carolina has now lost consecutive games for the first time this season.
Offensive slump
Following two extra inning games, the Gamecocks managed just five hits and two runs against Missouri junior pitcher Reggie McClain (4-1).
The Gamecocks had the tying run in scoring position with one out in the top of the ninth inning, but senior left fielder Elliott Caldwell grounded out and junior pinch hitter Collin Steagall struck out to end the game.
Of late, the Gamecocks have struggled to score runs, putting pressure on the pitching staff to produce.
Defensive struggles continue
The Gamecocks allowed an unearned run in the seventh inning, the second straight loss partially resulting from an error. Through 22 games, South Carolina has committed 29 errors, five more than its opponents.
Middle of lineup success
Senior first baseman Kyle Martin and Caldwell have reached base in nine and 16 consecutive games, respectively.
Each player has hit a game-tying or winning home run in the past week.
Up next
The Gamecocks will once again face the Tigers Saturday at 3:30. Junior southpaw Jack Wynkoop will take the mound for the Gamecocks, who will look to bounce back to win the series.