South Carolina jumped out to an early advantage and never looked back in an 11-3 blowout victory over Kentucky, Friday. Josiah Sightler continued on his tear, going 3 for 5 with three RBI on three extra base hits. Sightler’s hitting streak has reached 11 games.
Sightler started his big night by doubling and scored the game’s first run on Andrew Eyster’s single to center. Sightler then launched a three-run homer in the second inning, extending the Gamecocks lead to 6-1. Sightler wasn’t done. USC’s DH doubled and scored again in the sixth to cap the Gamecocks scoring. Kentucky scored a harmless run in the ninth, but the outcome was never in doubt as South Carolina cruised to victory.
Michael Braswell also did some heavy lifting, finishing 4 for 4 with a double and three RBI. Eyster (2-5, two RBI) and Jalen Vasquez (2-4, three runs) also homered as part of the barrage. Brett Thomas secured his first career victory, giving up two runs (one earned) in four innings.
South Carolina (25-23, 11-14) and Kentucky are back at it for Game 2 at noon, Saturday.
