The Cincinnati Bearcats baseball team opened their NCAA tournament campaign with a strong 11-6 victory over Wake Forest on May 30, marking their first tournament appearance in six years. The Bearcats stormed out to an impressive 8-0 lead by the end of the second inning, showcasing an unexpected offensive burst that included three two-run homers.
Freshman Derrick Pitts was a standout, driving in four of the game’s first six runs. “Our offense did some really good things in terms of just pressuring,” said UC coach Jordan Bischel, emphasizing the importance of their powerful performance and effective short game. As the Bearcats built an early advantage, the energy in the dugout reflected their enthusiasm and determination.
Despite being known for their pitching, the Bearcats showed remarkable hitting skills during the game. After leaping to a 2-0 lead in the first inning, they added to their tally with crucial contributions from players like Quinton Coats and Donovan Ford, both of whom hit two-run homers. In total, the match featured a combined seven home runs, with Wake Forest hitting four of their own.
Veteran pitcher Nathan Taylor had a solid performance on the mound, going six innings while allowing five runs and striking out seven batters. His performance was integral in maintaining control against a potent Wake Forest offense. Reliever Michael Conte and freshman Adam Buczkowski effectively closed out the game, with Buczkowski making an impression despite pitching with a broken nose.
In the lead-up to their next matchup, Cincinnati shone a spotlight on versatility, as Landyn Vidourek, returning from injury, added valuable offensive support with two hits, two stolen bases, and a walk.
The Bearcats are set to face the Tennessee Volunteers on Saturday night, and Coach Bischel has confirmed that left-hander Kellen O’Connor will be taking the mound. With the tournament structured as a double-elimination event, Cincinnati is hopeful to continue their winning momentum.
The excitement surrounding the Bearcats’ performance not only showcases their resilience but also reflects a growing enthusiasm for the program’s resurgence in competitive play. The team’s blend of power hitting and solid pitching could pave the way for further success in the tournament and beyond.