Chapel Hill, NC – In a post-game press conference following a tough loss to Arizona, University of North Carolina baseball coach Scott Forbes expressed pride in his team’s resilience and readiness for an upcoming elimination game. Despite conceding 16 hits, Forbes emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and learning from past experiences, particularly after a previous victory against Oklahoma in a similar situation. The team remains optimistic about their chances as they prepare for the decisive match that could determine their postseason fate.
The Challenge Ahead: A Familiar Situation
The stakes couldn’t be higher for the University of North Carolina baseball team as they face Arizona in a pivotal elimination game in the Super Regional. Coach Scott Forbes reflected on the team’s journey, recalling their first meeting back on August 19. “If I told you we were going to be playing at home in a game three of a super regional, what would you do? You’d take it immediately,” he stated, underscoring the significance of the moment.
The Tar Heels entered the game with a sense of urgency, knowing that their season hinged on the outcome. Forbes acknowledged the challenge posed by Arizona, a team known for its powerful hitting. “We knew coming in Arizona really hits it, and we saw that today,” he said.
Learning from Previous Experiences
The Tar Heels’ recent experiences have equipped them with the tools necessary to face adversity. Last weekend, they found themselves in a similar elimination game against Oklahoma, where they ultimately emerged victorious. Players Jackson VanDeBrake and Carter French both emphasized the importance of their previous encounters. “We’ve been there before. We know we can do it again,” VanDeBrake said, indicating that the team’s collective memory of overcoming challenges will serve them well in the upcoming game.
Forbes pointed out that familiarity with high-pressure situations can be advantageous. “Anytime you know you’ve done something before, you definitely can revert back to that,” he explained. This mindset is crucial as they prepare to face a formidable opponent once again.
Pitching and Strategy: Key Components
One of the most pressing concerns for the Tar Heels heading into the next game is their pitching strategy. Forbes confirmed that Ryan Lynch will start, but he acknowledged that the depth of their pitching staff is not what it was during previous games.
Lynch’s performance will be critical, especially following a mixed outing from freshman pitcher Walker McDuffie, who struggled against Arizona. Forbes remarked on McDuffie’s potential, stating, “He had great life on his ball. He’ll settle in. He’s a pitcher.” The coach’s confidence in his players is evident, but he also recognizes the need for better execution on the mound.
The Importance of Execution
Execution in crucial moments has been a recurring theme for the Tar Heels. In their loss to Arizona, Forbes pointed out that they left 13 runners on base, an issue that could have changed the game’s outcome. “We had some chances to potentially put them away and divide that lead a little bit,” he said, highlighting the need for timely hitting.
Players echoed this sentiment, with French noting, “We put some good at-bats together. Sometimes the ball didn’t land our way.” The team is focused on making the necessary adjustments to capitalize on their opportunities in the upcoming game.
Mental Resilience: A Team’s Backbone
As the team prepares for the decisive game, mental resilience will play a crucial role. Forbes emphasized the importance of staying positive and moving on quickly from setbacks. “Once that final out was made, we’re already moving on. There’s no point in hanging on to today,” he stated, reinforcing the need to maintain a forward-looking perspective.
VanDeBrake remarked on the team’s mindset, stating, “We’re coming in the same way we did today, playing our baseball.” This consistent approach is vital for maintaining confidence and focus in high-pressure situations.
A Sense of Urgency and Hope
As the Tar Heels gear up for what could be their final game of the season, the players appear to be fueled by hope and determination. “In our minds, it’s not our last game,” VanDeBrake declared, reflecting the team’s collective belief that they can continue their journey.
Forbes remains optimistic about the team’s prospects, stating, “I’m excited really. This is why you coach, and this is also why you come to the University of North Carolina as a player—to play in these games.”
The UNC baseball team is armed with the lessons of past experiences, a commitment to execution, and a collective resilience that has been tested time and again. As coach Scott Forbes aptly put it, “we did it last weekend and we know we can do it again,”