Wolfpack falls to Cavaliers, 4-2

NC State jumped out to an early 2-0 lead on Virginia, but was unable to muster any subsequent offense and fell by a final score of 4-2. Virginia's prior loss in ACC Tournament play to Florida State made this a meaningless game as the winner of Friday's matchup between the Wolfpack and the Seminoles will move on to the tournament semifinals.

A second inning Patrick Bailey solo home run and a third inning Josh McLain RBI infield single staked the Pack to the early lead, but strikeouts (12 total) and an inability to take advantage of runners on base did in State in this one. The strikeouts have really become an unwelcomed trend as of late.

Bailey and Shane Shepard combined for four of State's six total hits on the day.

Reid Johnston looked rough in the start on the mound, lacking his typical superb control. He walked three in 2.2 innings, allowing two runs (both earned) on three hits. Five State relivers (David Harrison, Nick Swiney, Nolan Clenney, Evan Justice, Mathieu Gauthier) combined to throw 5.1 innings allowing just a single earned run, although David Harrison (1-3) did get sacked with the loss for an unearned run he allowed. Clenney, Justice, and Gauthier should all be available Friday if needed.

Brian Brown will be on the bump for the Wolfpack for tomorrow's 7:00pm tilt vs Florida State.