South Carolina struggled offensively in their SEC series opener against No. 12 Oklahoma, falling 8-5 despite having 12 hits. The Gamecocks only hit one extra-base hit and grounded into three double plays. Head coach Paul Mainieri acknowledged the team’s lack of power hitting, with only 19 home runs in 19 games, the fifth-fewest in the SEC. Despite a late offensive surge, led by KJ Scobey’s three-hit night, the Gamecocks couldn’t overcome a six-run deficit.
Starting pitcher Brandon Stone had a rough first inning but settled in for five innings, allowing five runs on seven hits. South Carolina’s offense couldn’t generate enough consistent run-scoring, while Oklahoma’s pitching and speed on the bases proved challenging. The Sooners capitalized on South Carolina’s defensive miscues to create the separation they needed for the win. Looking ahead to game two of the series, South Carolina will aim to bounce back and even the score on Saturday afternoon.
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