The question about the new-look UVA Baseball team going into Season 1 under Chris Pollard: pitching.
There was no question about whether Pollard’s lineup would be able to produce runs.
We saw a microcosm of both in the Opening Day 13-7 win over Wagner on Friday.
Starting pitcher Henry Zatkowski got touched up for five runs in the second inning, on a day in which he allowed 10 baserunners to the 18 hitters that he faced in three innings of work – five hits, two for extra bases, four walks, one hit-by-pitch.
Zatkowski also struck out six, but.
The good news from the staff: the ‘pen only gave up two runs on five hits the rest of the way.
The Opening Day starter getting roughed up like that, though, not good.
Now, the lineup: 13 runs, 14 hits, 12 walks, two homers – by the 8 and 9 guys (third baseman Aiden Harris and right fielder Zack Jackson).
First baseman Sam Harris was 4-for-6 with two RBIs and two runs scored; DH Joe Tiroly was 2-for-2 with three walks and two runs scored.
Leadoff man and shortstop Eric Becker: 2-for-4, two walks, three runs scored.
Two-hole hitter AJ Gracia: 1-for-3, three walks, two runs scored, RBI.
This one was tight into the middle innings, with Virginia finally seizing control with a seven-run sixth, keyed by a three-run homer from Aiden Harris on a 2-0 pitch that got the score to 11-7.
The next pitch, to Jackson, went over the bullpen in right.
Series wraps with a twinbill
The teams conclude their three-game series with a doubleheader on Saturday, beginning at noon.
Forecast high temperature in Charlottesville on Saturday: 60.
Forecast real-feel high: 62.
I will be there; if you can get out, have a cider and a hot dog with me.
Game 1 starts at noon; Game 2 is 45 minutes after the conclusion of Game 1.
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Chris Graham
