How sweet it is: Virginia rolls, ECU stumbles

by Jay Jenkins on June 3rd, 2011

To a degree, things went Virginia’s way on Friday. The Cavaliers became the first program in the country to win their 50th game and did so as they registered their 15th shutout.
The offense started early, scoring two in the first and third innings, but Navy stayed in the game and never let Virginia coach Brian O’Connor turn to his bullpen.
It would have been nice if the Cavaliers could have thrown up crooked numbers in the middle frames and pulled Will Roberts.
The junior would have been a nice trump card in relief Monday if the regional extended that long, but it seems doubtful now.
Blame Navy pitcher Ben Nelson.
The right-hander was very solid, allowing four of the six runs that he allowed with two outs.
Since Navy had not played a team with an RPI higher than what Maryland had, Nelson should be applauded.
All that matters in C-Ville is that Virginia moved on and stayed perfect.
All eyes shift to what will be the biggest game of the season against St. John’s.
How will the Cavaliers respond?
The team seemed to fade with the pressure rising last year, falling in the Super Regional at home against Oklahoma.
The current bunch, however, seems to block out the world beyond Davenport with ease.
That means a ton this time of year.

Post a comment