Arizona Forces Deciding Game in Chapel Hill Super Regional
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (AP) — In a thrilling clash on Saturday, Arizona’s Maddox Mihalakis played a crucial role in the Wildcats’ 10-8 victory over North Carolina, setting the stage for a decisive Game 3 in the Chapel Hill Super Regional on Sunday.
In a gripping seventh inning where the Wildcats were down 8-6, Arizona mounted a stunning rally. The comeback ignited with a double from Brendan Summerhill, bringing in one run while teammate Easton Breyfogle advanced to third. Breyfogle then capitalized on a wild pitch by Walter McDuffie, leveling the score. As the bases filled due to walks, Mihalakis delivered with a two-run single to right field off Folger Boaz, putting Arizona ahead for good.
Tony Pluta earned the win with a strong performance, pitching 2 1/3 scoreless innings, while McDuffie took the loss.
North Carolina, boasting a record of 46-14, had taken an early lead in the top of the seventh with four runs, highlighted by Tyson Bass’s three-run homer and Jackson Van De Brake’s bases-loaded walk. Earlier in the game, Tommy Splaine had put Arizona on the board with a two-run home run.
This matchup marked North Carolina’s 12th appearance in a super regional, from which they have advanced eight times, while Arizona has reached this stage six times, previously winning four. Notably, Arizona faced a tough defeat in the first game of the series, losing 18-2.
With both teams now tied, eyes are set on Sunday’s deciding match, promising fans an exciting finish to this tightly contested series.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
