Streaking The Lawn: All Posts by Dan SiegelUVa sports uncovered... from the Rotunda to Homer and backhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/52586/stl_fav.png2024-03-28T08:02:00-04:00https://www.streakingthelawn.com/authors/dan-siegel/rss2024-03-28T08:02:00-04:002024-03-28T08:02:00-04:00Virginia softball is off to a historic start in 2024
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<p>Add another program to the list of UVA spring sports to be excited about.</p> <p id="DTGpSp">Carla Williams and the <a href="https://www.streakingthelawn.com">Virginia Cavaliers</a> athletic administration have made a clear investment into the rapidly rising sport of softball. Over the past five years, UVA opened Palmer Park and added an indoor player development center, team lounge, training room, and press box in that same complex.</p>
<p id="9becUO">The on-field results have followed. In 2022, head coach Joanna Hardin led the ‘Hoos to their first winning season in a decade. She followed that up with another breakthrough in 2023, getting to the 30-win mark. This season, the improvements have gone even further, as the ‘Hoos are highly competitive in a loaded ACC. </p>
<p id="xlQnfI">As we stand on March 28th, Virginia is 21-10 overall and 7-5 in conference play. For context, the ‘Hoos have not been above .500 in ACC games since 2010.</p>
<p id="QeCAMn">Recently, UVA shocked the softball world with an upset series win over #11 Clemson, and followed that up with shutdown mid-week wins at Liberty and James Madison.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Harris FOR THE SERIES WIN!<br><br>Watch on ACCNX<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoHoos?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoHoos</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnTheRise?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnTheRise</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HoosNext?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HoosNext</a> <a href="https://t.co/EnBbhoDZR1">pic.twitter.com/EnBbhoDZR1</a></p>— Virginia Softball (@UVASoftball) <a href="https://twitter.com/UVASoftball/status/1771960379893027190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2024</a>
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<p id="MdLfV6">The mound is where the Cavaliers have made the living this year; they rank fourth in the ACC in earned run average and second in strikeout to walk ratio. Eden Bigham has been the workhorse, accounting for nearly 40% of the team’s total innings this year. She has amassed a conference leading 36% strikeout rate, while pitching to a 2.19 ERA.</p>
<p id="vtlceY">Madi Harris is another name to know. She recently took home ACC Pitcher of the Week, due to her 9.1 dominant innings out of the bullpen in Virginia’s two victories over the Tigers. She has video game numbers this year: a 0.79 ERA over 35.2 innings pitched with 48 punch outs compared to just nine free passes.</p>
<p id="oXNeai">On the side, Jade Hylton is simply what makes the UVA offense go. The sophomore shortstop is slashing .344/.426/.613, all of which lead the team by a large margin. Hylton, who was the No. 56 overall 2022 recruit per Extra Inning Softball, is a prime example of the high profile talent that Hardin can now bring into the program. She is building on her All-ACC Freshman season and is becoming one of the most dangerous hitters in the conference.</p>
<p id="G8pZU6">The Cavaliers are continuing to gain exposure and poised to perhaps participate in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since that aforementioned 2010 season. All signs indicate that the future is even brighter. Simply put, it is time to start paying attention to this program if you are not already.</p>
<p id="3zJXHx">Virginia will make their way up to <a href="https://www.vuhoops.com">Villanova</a> this weekend for a pair of games, before a three game series in South Bend the following weekend. </p>
https://www.streakingthelawn.com/2024/3/28/24114072/virginia-cavaliers-uva-softball-virginia-softball-joanna-hardin-eden-bigham-madi-harris-jade-hyltonDan Siegel2024-03-25T07:02:00-04:002024-03-25T07:02:00-04:00UVA women’s swim and dive wins fourth consecutive national title
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<figcaption>Photo by Alex Slitz/NCAA Photos via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The dynasty continues in Charlottesville as the Virginia athletic department collects its 34th NCAA championship. </p> <p id="Es2Czh">It is that time of year again; another addition to the trophy case. The <a href="https://www.streakingthelawn.com">Virginia Cavaliers</a> women’s swim and dive team FOUR-peatet as national champions over the weekend, grabbing the school’s 34th NCAA title. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">It is OFFICIAL!<br>UVA has won its 4⃣th consecutive NCAA title! <br>Only the third program in NCAA women's swim/dive history to do so! <a href="https://t.co/KsHsVsqL2A">pic.twitter.com/KsHsVsqL2A</a></p>— Virginia Swimming and Dive (@UVASwimDive) <a href="https://twitter.com/UVASwimDive/status/1771681536926003224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2024</a>
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<p id="AM9CXo">With 527.5 points, UVA finished nearly 100 points ahead of second-place Texas. The Cavaliers won four of the five relays and seven individual events. Most notably, Gretchen Walsh clocked in at 44.83 in the 100 Free, breaking the American and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/us-open-tennis">US Open</a> records, in addition to being the best ever in the NCAA. Walsh led the way with seven gold medals, followed by her sister Alex Walsh’s six, and five by Jasmine Nocentini.</p>
<p id="3ZomdF">Needless to say, Todd DeSorbo’s program is showing no signs of slowing down. Virginia has a chance to tie the Longhorns dynasty from 1984 to 1988 with a fifth consecutive title next season. They would also break the UVA athletics record, which they currently share with the men’s soccer team, who won four straight from 1991 to 1994.</p>
<p id="sO3zUx">Overall, the Cavaliers rank tied with Denver and Oregon for 14th on the NCAA team titles leaderboard. This places behind just North Carolina in the ACC, who has 50. This is the university’s 11th championship in women’s sports, which also places second in the conference, behind UNC.</p>
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https://www.streakingthelawn.com/2024/3/25/24110632/virginia-cavaliers-uva-swim-and-dive-national-championship-gretchen-walsh-alex-walshDan Siegel2024-03-18T07:02:00-04:002024-03-18T07:02:00-04:00Five takeaways from UVA baseball’s series win over #7 Wake Forest
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<p>The projected Atlantic and Coastal division winners clashed in an early weekend series and the ‘Hoos took two of three</p> <p id="UtGJLc">Sunday was a good day for <a href="https://www.streakingthelawn.com">Virginia Cavaliers</a> fans. Not only did the ‘Hoos sneak into <a href="https://www.streakingthelawn.com/2024/3/17/24103917/virginia-cavaliers-uva-basketball-virginia-basketball-march-madness-ncaa-tournament-selection-sunday">March Madness</a>, but the baseball team clinched a series win over the ACC’s top dog Wake Forest, improving to 16-4 overall.</p>
<p id="6aREm8">This week’s action on the diamond started on Tuesday, when UVA took care of in-state foe William & Mary 6-2, thanks to a big sixth inning. Cullen McKay took the mound on Friday to open the <a href="https://www.bloggersodear.com">Wake Forest</a> series and, despite getting roughed up, the Cavaliers exploded in two separate frames to win 16-10. </p>
<p id="5JdF9U">The bats did not have the same life on Saturday, and the Deacs handled business with a 9-3 victory of their own. However, the Cardiac Cavs delivered in the clutch on Sunday, taking the rubber match 11-10 in extra innings. Here is what we are taking away from a successful week:</p>
<h2 id="ZU0ax2">The Cavaliers improve to 3-0 in extra inning games</h2>
<p id="p5QYOL">Sunday’s late game heroics reinforced that no UVA baseball game is over until the last out is officially made. After Virginia jumped ahead 5-3 in the fourth, Wake Forest scored eight unanswered runs, and the natural reaction was, “here we go again.”</p>
<p id="LAYgRo">Unlike the Miami series, though, UVA did not let a blown lead be the whole story. The ‘Hoos tacked on one in the seventh and three more in the eighth. When they were eventually down to their final strike, Casey Saucke came through with an opposite field home run to tie it. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">TWO OUTS. TWO STRIKES. <br><br>NO ONE BETTER!!! <br><br> : ACCNX | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoHoos?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoHoos</a> <a href="https://t.co/kKx8nsr9HC">pic.twitter.com/kKx8nsr9HC</a></p>— Virginia Baseball (@UVABaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/UVABaseball/status/1769469638654533721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2024</a>
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<p id="OHOuSi">Then, Kevin Jaxel, who has had a brutal start to 2024, returned to his previous self, quickly retiring the side in order in the top of the tenth. Sure, a pair of Wake Forest fielding blunders sealed the deal, but then bottom line is Cavaliers put themselves in position to be successful. As the broadcast emphasized, there’s a fine line between Division-1 defenses and MLB defenses, so generating pressure on the defense goes a long way.</p>
<h2 id="QkHAHK">Jacob Ference is still the same productive player at this level</h2>
<p id="Oyz1Aj">The DIII-Salisbury graduate transfer was tasked with stepping into a premier high major lineup and handing much of the catching duties. One would expect growing pains for someone who was adept to a much lower level of baseball but Ference has not been phased. Simply put, he can rake. </p>
<p id="LV0bQA">Over Ference’s two starts this weekend, he went 5-for-8 with two walks and three home runs. On the season, he leads the team in all three basic hitting categories, slashing .474/.580/.947. It is safe to say coach O’Connor will want to make every effort to insert him in the lineup daily, whether he is behind the plate or the designated hitter.</p>
<h2 id="v5sz4Y">Jack O’Connor further proves himself in the bullpen...then gets injured</h2>
<p id="gOUcuN">The second-year right-hander, who initially was demoted from the rotation, was quickly earning a major role in a struggling bullpen. O’Connor had a trio of successful outings this week, headlined by holding the fort in Friday’s shootout with a three inning, shutdown save.</p>
<p id="Tmo6Ge">O’Connor was called upon again on Sunday, and after his third batter faced, which ended on a pitch that missed the plate badly, he immediately looked into the dugout. He was promptly removed from the game.</p>
<p id="RUpvVM">Just a tough break, especially for a guy that was coming into his own.</p>
<h2 id="ly6HUW">Virginia’s outfield defense is a clear strength</h2>
<p id="lGlgep">No, they are not perfect. Harrison Didawick did lose a fly ball in the sun in the first inning of Saturday’s contest. But Didawick also showed off his range this weekend by making SportsCenter’s Top Ten on a diving catch down the left field line.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Harrison Didawick No. 3️⃣ on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SCTop10?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SCTop10</a> <a href="https://t.co/0Vr10SHjI3">pic.twitter.com/0Vr10SHjI3</a></p>— Virginia Baseball (@UVABaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/UVABaseball/status/1769041841830105422?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2024</a>
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<p id="cxRvQI">Generally speaking, the ‘Hoos have two would-be center fielders in Didawick and Bobby Whalen and a hose of a right field arm in Casey Saucke.</p>
<h2 id="Qgzpu0">The future of the pitching staff is in good hands</h2>
<p id="XdLGSC">A lot can be said about coach O’Connor not grabbing an established veteran pitcher in the portal this offseason a la Nick Parker. Regardless, nobody can dispute the amount of young talent this staff has.</p>
<p id="2ALwBU">Some of the freshmen arms got some action this weekend and showed reasons to be excited. Matt Augustin has stood out the most, wrapping up his weekend with a scoreless eighth inning on Sunday. Bryson Moore and Freddy Beruvides have also flashed upside in their limited action. A major selling point at UVA is that the first-years will play, and the most recent class has not disappointed coach O’Connor for having that philosophy.</p>
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https://www.streakingthelawn.com/2024/3/18/24104399/virginia-cavaliers-uva-baseball-virginia-baseball-wake-forest-casey-saucke-ethan-anderson-walkoffDan Siegel2024-03-11T09:53:36-04:002024-03-11T09:53:36-04:00Five takeaways from UVA baseball’s series loss to Miami
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<img alt="COLLEGE BASEBALL: MAR 10 Virginia at Miami" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/CdAZ5oXuYh40orBDud4KwBfzo1U=/0x0:3000x2000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73197732/2066799343.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Samuel Lewis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>A pair of midweek victories were overshadowed by a series loss in Coral Gables to open ACC play</p> <p id="NnSgfb">The <a href="https://www.streakingthelawn.com">Virginia Cavaliers</a> ended their home stand strong with a midweek victory over Penn State, 6-3. The ‘Hoos then traveled to the nation’s capital where they surged past George Washington, 26-12. That football-like score set the stage for the weekend as UVA fell in the first two games due to late Miami comeback efforts by final scores of 6-5 and 16-12. Sunday appeared to feature much of the same as the Cavaliers squandered multiple four run leads but pulled it out, 14-11. Here is what we are taking away from the week:</p>
<h2 id="YW3xy1">The Virginia bullpen is extremely problematic</h2>
<p id="Q5ikeH">In the same sense that Virginia’s bats can make any game competitive, no lead is safe with their bullpen. This was especially evident in the weekend series.</p>
<p id="nSTiLh">UVA relievers allowed 21 runs in 9.1 innings over the three game stretch. Even the George Washington blowout win did not come without 12 runs allowed by pitchers, most of which have legitimate roles. The ‘Hoos just happened to explode for 26 of their own.</p>
<p id="8ad2UH">Kevin Jaxel and Blake Barker have particularly struggled but almost everyone is playing a role. Aidan Teel, who had been the most reliable reliever to date had little to no command in Saturday’s contest, leading to four walks allowed and an eventual game-winning grand slam for the Hurricanes. Brian O’Connor revamped the bullpen with high-performing lower major transfers this offseason but not grabbing a premier name or two may be coming back to bite him.</p>
<p id="jlKMD7">To end the segment on a positive note, Matt Augustin did have two critical strikeouts to strand the bases loaded late in Sunday’s win. The freshman has impressive life on his fastball and the pitch-ability of an upperclassman.</p>
<h2 id="7AOa0x">The rotation is beginning to sort itself out</h2>
<p id="ckq7lv">As much as the UVA pitching staff struggled as a whole, the starters showed some positive signs this week. Cullen McKay got the Friday start and worked 5.1 rock solid innings, striking out eight and giving up three unearned runs. Evan Blanco continues to show he belongs with a quality start of his own. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Day is done for Evan Blanco after 5. <a href="https://t.co/in1ao6BpBV">pic.twitter.com/in1ao6BpBV</a></p>— Virginia Baseball (@UVABaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/UVABaseball/status/1766629957193896426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2024</a>
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<p id="n8yFzA">Jay Woolfolk did struggle on Sunday but this comes after two consecutive positive outings. Even in the Penn State game, Owen Coady further proved to be a reliable midweek option in his second start of the season. </p>
<p id="FK2R6Y">All this occurs while Jack O’Connor, who had been demoted from the rotation, has a pair of good one inning outings out of the ‘pen, indicating that a (potentially back end) reliever role may be best for him.</p>
<p id="IY56aT">There was news that broke earlier this week that Bradley Hodges will miss the 2024 season due to Tommy John surgery, though. Losing someone who was supposed to take a similar freshman to sophomore jump as Blanco is a back breaker no matter how you cut it. Regardless, the biggest source of confidence with Virginia’s arms still lies in their rotation.</p>
<h2 id="wVzFk9">Ethan Anderson moves down in the batting order</h2>
<p id="5ncl8w">The preseason all-American’s early struggles have been well-documented. Starting Saturday, Coach O’Connor decided to demote Anderson to the eight hole to relieve some of the pressure. He responded with two multi hit games to cap off the weekend.</p>
<p id="FuOrDT">As previously discussed, there are valid reasons for Anderson’s slow start. As an emerging superstar, he is being pitched to more carefully, plus, spending time as a catcher takes a toll on your body. Evidently, there is enough previous production to assume that Anderson will get going sooner rather than later.</p>
<h2 id="BP5DWB">Henry Godbout thankfully avoids long-term injury</h2>
<p id="VoNqXn">The Virginia second baseman left Tuesday’s Penn State game after getting hit by a pitch, and missed the proceeding two contests as well. However, Godbout returned to the lineup on Saturday and came through with a couple of key hits. More than anything, Godbout’s defense in the middle infield is clearly superior to anybody we have seen off the bench. It is a relief for UVA fans to see stability return at second base.</p>
<h2 id="Sh1xgS">Harrison Didawick’s power numbers just coming</h2>
<p id="2vzWGD">Virginia’s lineup has essentially had their moments top to bottom and this entire five game stretch, it was Didawick’s turn. This week, he nearly tripled his home run total, adding five long balls to his season mark. He reached base an additional eight times, including a critical double into the gap on Sunday to provide insurance in the ninth. On the season, the sophomore is hitting .347 with a team-leading .776 slugging percentage.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">DIDDDDYYYY!!! <br><br>That's RBI No. 8 & 9 in the series for Harrison Didawick to put UVA up 14-11!<br><br> : ACCNX | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoHoos?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoHoos</a> <a href="https://t.co/NWZo4LzAkR">pic.twitter.com/NWZo4LzAkR</a></p>— Virginia Baseball (@UVABaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/UVABaseball/status/1766932339987489155?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2024</a>
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<p id="PEE3Sp">The Cavaliers, now 1-2 in ACC play and 13-3 overall, host No. 1 <a href="https://www.bloggersodear.com">Wake Forest</a> in a three game set next weekend.</p>
https://www.streakingthelawn.com/2024/3/11/24096673/virginia-cavaliers-uva-baseball-virginia-baseball-miami-loss-harrison-didawick-bullpenDan Siegel2024-03-06T10:16:00-05:002024-03-06T10:16:00-05:00Evaluating where UVA basketball stands ahead of the ACC and NCAA Tournaments
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<img alt="Virginia v Duke" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/zSVQNDabsFtR58pY4Y_DmKK9sX8=/0x0:5461x3641/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73186251/2046566123.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Lance King/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Keeping track of what to monitor as conference tournament season approaches</p> <p id="NZL2rc">The Virginia Cavaliers have entered yet another long-term offensive drought. They have fallen in four of their last six games, and failed to reach 50 points more times than not in that span.</p>
<p id="bROjN0">At this point, the ‘Hoos are a clear bubble team and would have to earn their spot in March Madness down the stretch. With one regular season game remaining, the ACC Tournament will have a major impact on the committee’s decision.</p>
<p id="PH5kVe">Virginia, along with North Carolina and Duke, has clinched a conference double bye, meaning their path to a conference title is just three games. Barring a fluky series of outcomes, Clemson and Pitt are battling for the final top four spot.</p>
<p id="UxHOvm">To earn the #3 seed, the ‘Hoos will need to either win Saturday’s regular season finale against Georgia Tech or rely on a Pitt loss to North Carolina State. Otherwise, they will be #4 in the ACC. In the scheme of things, though, the difference between those two spots is negligible.</p>
<p id="xeGNvm">What is most important is how the Cavaliers can work their way into the big dance. <a href="http://www.bracketmatrix.com">Bracket Matrix</a>, which is a weighted consensus of dozens of bracketologists, has UVA on the top of the 11 line, the first team in the Last Four In. Still, there are multiple sites that have the ‘Hoos outside of the field entirely.</p>
<p id="CxuMsc">For starters, Georgia Tech at home is an absolute must win game. One of the biggest selling points of Virginia’s resume is the fact that they are perfect in the bottom two quadrants and with the Yellow Jackets placing 133rd in the NET, that will be considered a Quadrant 3 game. A loss would not end the season but would certainly put the Cavaliers in a deep hole.</p>
<p id="afRudC">Yes, Virginia controls their own destiny but there is nothing wrong with rooting for outside help as well. Here are some other bubble teams to monitor during the rest of the regular season:</p>
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<li id="6y9sgV">In the Big East, <strong>Villanova, St. John’s, and Seton Hall </strong>are all on the 11 line. The Wildcats and Pirates play each other on Wednesday but a Villanova home loss to Creighton on Saturday would be nice.</li>
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<strong>New Mexico </strong>is right on the bubble and they have a huge game at Utah State to close the season. We will be rooting against the Lobos.</li>
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<strong>Florida Atlantic </strong>has a difficult final week against North Texas and Memphis. An 0-2 stretch may move the Owls to the outside of the bubble.</li>
<li id="udnVN9">Regarding the ACC, <strong>Wake Forest </strong>is the biggest threat to the Cavaliers, even after their brutal loss to Georgia Tech. The Demon Deacons finish the season by hosting Clemson. Go Tigers.</li>
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<p id="BTM58T">As far as early conference tournaments are concerned, there are a few bid stealers to keep an eye on:</p>
<p id="t3IUjH">The <strong>Missouri Valley Conference </strong>crowns a champion on Sunday, March 10 and Indiana State has a chance to gain an at-large spot. Ideally, they win the conference title so an opportunity for UVA isn’t removed.</p>
<p id="yWhLfd">In a similar sense, keep an eye out for James Madison in the <strong>Sun Belt. </strong>The SBC title game is on Monday, March 11 and UVA fans will be hoping the Dukes pull that one out. If JMU is upset early, though, they will probably be left out of the field anyways.</p>
<p id="1fY5VJ">The <strong>West Coast Conference </strong>championship is also on that Monday with Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s poised for March Madness bids. The good news is that the WCC format allows for those top two seeds to automatically advance to the semi-finals. ‘Hoos fans are hoping for chalk in that tournament.</p>
<p id="WYM8BF">The spot that Virginia basketball is in is unfortunate. That said, it is time to accept their standing and lock in on the road to Selection Sunday.</p>
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https://www.streakingthelawn.com/2024/3/6/24091299/evaluating-where-uva-basketball-stands-ahead-of-the-acc-and-ncaa-tournaments-virginia-bubbleDan Siegel2024-03-03T17:52:17-05:002024-03-03T17:52:17-05:00Five takeaways from UVA baseball’s series win over UMass
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<figcaption>Photo courtesy of Virginia Athletics</figcaption>
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<p>The Cavaliers improve to 10-1, but snapped their 38 game home non-conference win streak in the process. </p> <p id="paG3au">Following a successful weekend in Jacksonville, the <a href="https://www.streakingthelawn.com">Virginia Cavaliers</a> cruised back to the Dish on Wednesday with a 16-4 blowout over VMI. Then, the weekend series against UMass got a little dicey. Friday night was a dogfight that UVA ultimately came out on top 4-3, thanks to a tenth inning walk-off base hit by Henry Godbout. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">HENRY FOR THE WIN!!! <br><br> : ACCNX | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoHoos?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoHoos</a> <a href="https://t.co/mhVwYFFtfm">pic.twitter.com/mhVwYFFtfm</a></p>— Virginia Baseball (@UVABaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/UVABaseball/status/1763694378676088936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2024</a>
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<p id="UO2bgh">Saturday saw the ‘Hoos fall behind early and they never recovered, allowing the Minutemen to take the contest, 10-5. Sunday’s rubber match was smooth sailing through eight when UMass once again put up a fight. Four ninth inning runs were not enough, however, as Virginia held on by a final score of 10-6. Here is what we are taking away from the week:</p>
<h2 id="TmtflN">Consider this Virginia’s coming back down to earth moment</h2>
<p id="8PFSun">UMass’ Saturday victory snapped UVA’s 38 game home non-conference winning streak, and handed them their first loss of the season. Over that span, the ‘Hoos faced mostly lower major programs and handled them with ease pretty much every time. I’m sure that is what most were expecting this weekend alike, as the red hot Cavaliers were matched up with an Atlantic 10 foe that was coming off of a 14-35 season and a 1-3 opening weekend against Bucknell.</p>
<p id="WLhVjC">Credit to the opponent is always necessary and this UMass team showed tons of fight and resolve. That said, this is also a moment where Virginia fans need to take a step back and realize that their team is far from invincible. </p>
<p id="v1UjiQ">In the grand scheme of things, the ‘Hoos are in decent shape and conference play will truly determine what they are made of. Hopefully, this hard-fought series can serve as a wake up call and nothing else.</p>
<h2 id="SFuHF2">Jack O’Connor’s struggles continue</h2>
<p id="HgKa6m">The sophomore right-hander was given another weekend starting opportunity against UMass and the results were much of the same. O’Connor allowed six hits and six runs over just three and two-thirds innings pitched. He was once again not deceiving hitters with his pitch arsenal and essentially getting shelled as a result.</p>
<p id="KR71qV">This is O’Connor’s second consecutive outing in which he allowed more than five runs and failed to work even four innings. His season earned run average is now 12.66. A demotion from a weekend role is now imminent for the former highly heralded recruit.</p>
<h2 id="Y7xBN5">Jay Woolfolk strings together a pair of productive outings</h2>
<p id="fKjSp7">Woolfolk also struggled out of the gate this year but quickly turned things around over the last two weekends. After 4.1 dominant innings of relief in Jacksonville, Woolfolk was inserted back into the Sunday role and responded with the best outing of his young starting career. </p>
<p id="HSTAr5">Woolfolk gave up just one run over six innings, striking out a half-dozen. He did allow some hard contact, which amounted to eight hits, but the damage was limited by just one of them being for extra bases. Even more notably, Woolfolk was in full command of the strike zone, walking just one. Giving up free passes has been his Achilles heel so it is quite encouraging to see him trust his superior stuff and challenge hitters.</p>
<h2 id="XaqD5I">Ethan Anderson and Griff O’Ferrall are quietly off to slow starts at the plate</h2>
<p id="bpf1wX">Anderson and O’Ferall both entered the season with all-American expectations and have not been quite that productive yet. Over this four game stretch, the two combined for just four total hits. </p>
<p id="yf3H0l">Anderson is now hitting .234 with two doubles and no home runs over his first 47 at bats. Whereas last year, he was in the middle of a stacked order, he is now seen as the clear most dangerous option in the Cavaliers lineup. Therefore, pitchers are more careful when facing Anderson, and he has drawn seven walks as a result. We are just awaiting the power numbers as he counters this adjustment.</p>
<p id="GrW8rx">O’Ferrall has been exceptional with the glove at short but has not quite replicated his first weekend either. The UVA leadoff hitter’s batting average has dipped to .229 after a hitless Sunday.</p>
<h2 id="X9wzJd">Harrison Didawick is in line for a breakout season</h2>
<p id="YZd1Fy">The sophomore outfielder is showing us why he is a legitimate 2025 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/mlb-draft">MLB Draft</a> prospect. He can play center or the corner outfield spots where he covers a ton of ground and is getting better jumps on fly balls.</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">OF Harrison Didawick (<a href="https://twitter.com/UVABaseball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UVABaseball</a>) picked up a couple of hits on well-struck balls to the mid of the fld. Phys 6'4"/215 w/ pop & great ath for size.<br><br>Soph./'24 elig. <a href="https://t.co/2ahoJsTkNJ">pic.twitter.com/2ahoJsTkNJ</a></p>— PG College Baseball (@PGCollegeBall) <a href="https://twitter.com/PGCollegeBall/status/1762368158797582675?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2024</a>
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<p id="hGk8aV">Didawick’s most significant damage is done at the plate, though. His VMI game was the biggest standout where he reached base on five of six trips, including a round-tripper and a double. He is now slugging .595 to go along with his above .300 average. Didawick, along with the rest of the lineup, has done a nice job picking up Anderson and O’Ferrall’s slack.</p>
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https://www.streakingthelawn.com/2024/3/3/24089567/virginia-cavaliers-uva-baseball-virginia-baseball-umass-five-takeaways-jack-oconnor-jay-woolfolkDan Siegel2024-02-26T18:11:08-05:002024-02-26T18:11:08-05:00Five takeaways from UVA baseball’s undefeated weekend in Jacksonville
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<p>The ‘Hoos improve to 7-0 after a shutout win over Old Dominion and a sweep in the Jacksonville College Baseball Classic.</p> <p id="YQjfTZ">The <a href="https://www.streakingthelawn.com">Virginia Cavaliers</a> baseball team remains undefeated with a 4-0 week. It started on Wednesday, when five UVA pitchers combined to shut out Old Dominion 8-0. The Cavaliers took that momentum into Jacksonville, mounting a walk-off extra innings 5-4 victory over Wichita State, a 12-9 win against #18 Iowa, and a 6-4 nail biter over Auburn.</p>
<p id="RRI7As">The ‘Hoos moved up a spot in the D1Baseball poll to #13 as a result of this week. Here is what we are taking away:</p>
<h2 id="O4agSJ">The bats will give Virginia a chance in any game</h2>
<p id="xcKwY1">The Cavaliers have among the most dangerous lineups in America, which is why although they fell behind at some point in six of their seven games, they all resulted in comeback wins. The Iowa game in particular was telling. Virginia found themselves down 6-0 after a single inning of play, and ended up exploding back to tie the game in the fourth. The ‘Hoos are currently hitting .350 as a team with 10 homers, amounting to an OPS of 1.023.</p>
<h2 id="acbhyB">Multiple pitchers escape jams in key spots</h2>
<p id="t7y8vk">As much credit as the hitting deserves, Virginia’s bullpen held the fort and allowed these comebacks to happen as well. Aidan Teel is the clear closer on the roster, adding another save to his portfolio, and totaling five strikeouts over three innings this weekend.</p>
<p id="aatLRN">In the Auburn game, UVA’s pitching duo of Owen Coady and Kevin Jaxel had runners in scoring position virtually every inning but made big pitches when they needed to. The biggest play happened in a bases loaded spot when Henry Godbout had a sweet backhand glove flip to start an inning ending double play with the bases loaded.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Can we talk about this turn!! <a href="https://twitter.com/NCAABaseball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NCAABaseball</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SCTop10?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SCTop10</a> <a href="https://t.co/oGSNVZF9Ag">pic.twitter.com/oGSNVZF9Ag</a></p>— Virginia Baseball (@UVABaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/UVABaseball/status/1761944164655051218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2024</a>
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<p id="ZXy3cf">With help from Angelo Tonas limiting damage in the seventh, Coady and Jaxel combined for just two earned runs over 6.1 innings, despite allowing a total of five hits and five walks.</p>
<h2 id="soHUyN">The starting rotation remains a work in progress</h2>
<p id="HRlZeW">Brian O’Connor adjusted the weekend rotation after just one underwhelming weekend, shifting Jack O’Connor into the Saturday role. O’Connor had an even worse outing, however, allowing eight runs, all earned, over three innings against Iowa. Walks are not the issue but O’Connor is simply not missing bats, even when he seemingly does locate a pitch well. We have to wonder if his stuff is not simply good enough for a premier role.</p>
<p id="fgLlxO">Meanwhile, Coady got promoted to the Sunday spot and similar to Evan Blanco’s performance on Friday, he was not dominant but effective enough. Look for Cullen McKay to get a promotion sooner rather than later if he replicates his 4.1 shutout inning performance over Old Dominion in the coming weeks.</p>
<p id="iENZSj">I have no doubt that Coach O’Connor can piece together a makeshift plan to get enough outs each weekend, but someone needs to emerge as the ace to truly raise Virginia’s ceiling.</p>
<h2 id="k114D3">Jay Woolfolk provides huge innings out of the bullpen</h2>
<p id="AtgwUK">After O’Connor imploded in the Iowa game, Woolfolk had arguably the best performance of his <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-baseball">college baseball</a> career, working a career-high 4.1 innings with zero earned runs allowed. His command was as good as it has been and the slider/sinker combo was getting swings and misses all evening. From a pure upside perspective, Woolfolk may be the best candidate to emerge into that Friday role over the course of the season. As of now, he still has a long way to go.</p>
<h2 id="WDpAES">Henry Ford has another huge week in his rookie campaign</h2>
<p id="T7JWVZ">Ford has exploded onto the college scene from day one. To cap off a three hit night against Wichita State, he delivered the final blow, a walk-off double off the right center field wall.</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">IT'S A WALK OFF DELIVERED BY FORD! HOOS WIN! <br><br> : <a href="https://twitter.com/d1baseball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@D1Baseball</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoHoos?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoHoos</a> <a href="https://t.co/Xzh5SovkTc">pic.twitter.com/Xzh5SovkTc</a></p>— Virginia Baseball (@UVABaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/UVABaseball/status/1761205786745680274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2024</a>
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<p id="8aa01j">Ford is now slashing .448/.543/.759 over his first 33 plate appearances, showcasing elite power and the ability to hit the ball to all fields. Virginia needed a slugger to replace Jake Gelof and Ford may very well be that guy.</p>
https://www.streakingthelawn.com/2024/2/26/24083624/virginia-cavaliers-virginia-baseball-uva-baseball-jacksonville-classicDan Siegel2024-02-18T17:38:33-05:002024-02-18T17:38:33-05:00Five takeaways from UVA baseball’s opening weekend sweep over Hofstra
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<img alt="North Carolina v Virginia" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/MeEt1uIePeWBh97RIEda_VCLFOc=/0x0:3491x2327/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73148704/1493276257.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Eakin Howard/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The ‘Hoos start 3-0 for the third consecutive season</p> <p id="CEufze">The <a href="https://www.streakingthelawn.com">Virginia Cavaliers</a> baseball team took care of business in the opening weekend of the season with a 3-game sweep over Hofstra. Friday required a comeback effort, as the ‘Hoos were down 4-1 until a sixth inning rally, helping them ultimately pull out a 10-8 victory. There were zero problems on Saturday as the Cavaliers cruised in a 21-3 blowout. The final game of the series was also a bit interesting, but the bullpen ultimately put the finishing touches on an 11-9 win.</p>
<p id="og3Bl0">Here is what we are taking away from the first set of games:</p>
<h2 id="iCkVoj">It was not the sharpest beginning to the season from a run prevention standpoint</h2>
<p id="xrhKQM">As one would expect from any team jumping into a competitive February baseball setting, things were not exactly smooth sailing. </p>
<p id="MghP7z">Jack O’Connor took the bump on opening day and lasted just four innings, striking out three and allowing four runs on eight hits. On three separate occasions, he made an ill-advised pickoff throw, allowing the runner to advance. Time will tell whether he O’Connor is best suited for the ace spot on the staff, but some of the command issues were similar to what we saw last season.</p>
<p id="NigRRL">Jay Woolfolk was extremely unimpressive in a Sunday start, getting pulled after two innings of work with six earned runs attached to his name. Again, old habits struck, as Woolfolk walked five batters in this outing.</p>
<p id="CPIP1q">In total, the Cavaliers made six errors and allowed 20 runs against a rather average Hofstra team. Things will need to be cleaned up, but again, it is the middle of February, and they will always have the bats to fall back on.</p>
<h2 id="U3nUXi">Griff O’Ferrall silences the doubt about his power</h2>
<p id="VhbOeR">The UVA shortstop has been an on-base machine, batting nearly .400 in 2023, but with only three career home runs. Overall O’Ferrall wasted no time in proving his approach has become more complete, launching a bomb into the left field bleachers in UVA’s first at-bat of the season. He followed that up with another blast in Saturday’s contest. Overall on the weekend, O’Ferrall went 6-for-12 with three extra base hits and a walk.</p>
<p id="t478JP">His defense at the most premium position shined as well, as he made multiple web gems ranging to his left.</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="tl" dir="ltr"> <a href="https://twitter.com/Griff_OFerrall?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Griff_OFerrall</a> <br><br> : ACCNX | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoHoos?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoHoos</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SCTop10?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SCTop10</a> <a href="https://t.co/8oPrRNHTA2">pic.twitter.com/8oPrRNHTA2</a></p>— Virginia Baseball (@UVABaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/UVABaseball/status/1758607573899497865?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</a>
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<h2 id="4CW3m1">Henry Ford takes the college baseball world by storm</h2>
<p id="aiOVrC">The Charlottesville native gave his home crowd everything to cheer about in his debut, showcasing his immense power and bat to ball skills. Ford was arguably the story of the weekend, first tying the game on Friday in the sixth with his first career hit, then proceeding to blast two over the wall ensuing games. He reached base on eight of his first 14 career times at the plate.</p>
<h2 id="ioPHuW">Aidan Teel will be a staple of this ball club</h2>
<p id="Ubeowz">After missing all of 2023 with an injury, Teel saw time as a hitter and on the mound in the opening series. He was trusted in the biggest moments and delivered with saves in both the Friday and Sunday contests. Teel has a wicked slider and a fastball that approaches the mid-90’s, making him one of the most electric arms on the staff.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">✅Comeback complete for <a href="https://twitter.com/aidan_teel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aidan_teel</a>!<br><br>After sitting out the 2023 season with an injury, he struck out the final ✌️batters to earn the save in today’s opener <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoHoos?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoHoos</a> <a href="https://t.co/ad7LX7Hke9">pic.twitter.com/ad7LX7Hke9</a></p>— Virginia Baseball (@UVABaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/UVABaseball/status/1758646722677358889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2024</a>
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<h2 id="l4kfu5">Bobby Whalen pushes for a regular spot in the starting lineup</h2>
<p id="2SfvnP">The Indiana transfer had an impressive multi-year career in the Big Ten but knew he had to earn consistent playing time among a stacked Virginia lineup. On Saturday, Whalen reached base in all six plate appearances and drove in six runs. This earned him the start on Sunday against a fellow right-hander where he had an additional two-bagger.</p>
<p id="vqmHdd">Right now, the primary UVA outfielders consist of Casey Saucke, Harrison Didawick, Anthony Stephan, in addition to Whalen. Especially considering the defense that Whalen provides (albeit he did misplay a ball on Saturday), coach O’Connor seems comfortable starting him in center against both righties and lefties, and slotting Stephan into the designated hitter role.</p>
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https://www.streakingthelawn.com/2024/2/18/24076822/virginia-cavaliers-virginia-baseball-uva-baseball-hofstra-griff-oferrall-aidan-teel-henry-fordDan Siegel2024-02-14T13:46:39-05:002024-02-14T13:46:39-05:00Previewing UVA baseball’s 2024 lineup
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<figcaption>Photo by Eakin Howard/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Projecting Virginia’s starting nine and key reserves.</p> <p id="SzSxX8">As the <a href="https://www.streakingthelawn.com">Virginia Cavaliers</a> baseball team open the 2024 season on Friday, we continue the preview series with the position players. <a href="https://www.streakingthelawn.com/2024/2/9/24061475/virginia-cavaliers-uva-baseball-virginia-baseball-pitchers-preview-jack-oconnor">As discussed in the previous feature</a>, the UVA pitching staff has high upside but isn’t full of proven production. The bats are a completely different story, and the exact reason many are high on the ‘Hoos to return to Omaha.</p>
<p id="q6eQyS">Defending ACC Player of the Year Kyle Teel and all-time Virginia home run leader Jake Gelof have moved on and that’s significant. Still, the Cavaliers return 6 of 9 starters from a team that led the nation in batting average (.332) and finished top five in runs scored.</p>
<p id="A32zqq">Let’s take a look at our projected lineup:</p>
<h2 id="BRJxbZ">1. Griff O’Ferrall, SS</h2>
<p id="0i9T0O">O’Ferrall simply knows how to put hard contact on the ball and work good at bats, making him the perfect candidate to return as the leadoff hitter. UVA was not intent on stealing a ton of bases last year (why would they with all that power in the middle of the order?) but he does lead returners with 16 swipes on 18 attempts. O’Ferall’s next step in his development is to improve his power, having only three home runs in two seasons as a starter. That said, nobody will complain when you get on base at clip of .452, paired with plus defense at the most premium position.</p>
<h2 id="1aQDhB">2. Anthony Stephan, LF</h2>
<p id="0jPO84">Stephan got off to a slow start last year before his production absolutely exploded as the designated hitter. In 2024, he will be asked to do even more, likely starting in left field. With his bat, Stephan finished his sophomore season slashing .329/.449/.519. If he sustains or even builds on this over a full season of work, he will emerge onto the national radar among some of his teammates.</p>
<h2 id="rGXzch">3. Ethan Anderson, C</h2>
<p id="NGqArY">The preseason all-American will move from first base to catcher to fill in for the open spot left by Teel. Anderson provides elite pop from both sides of the plate. He was perhaps the unsung hero of the 2023 squad, finishing second the team in on base percentage (.469) and third in slugging percentage (.649). This type of hitting production from the catching position is hard to come by but UVA fans will be spoiled with back-to-back elite sluggers from their backstop.</p>
<h2 id="4Yk0PS">4. Casey Saucke, RF</h2>
<p id="HxNx5s">Saucke is simply your prototypical aesthetically pleasing hitter that all coaches would love to have. He sprays the ball throughout the diamond with his swing, and has incredible hand-eye coordination. He finished last year with an on base percentage of .392 with 16 doubles in 251 at bats. Saucke also has a cannon out of right field.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">BIG LEAGUE DART by Casey Saucke from deep right to third <a href="https://t.co/ThcyCHhOGY">pic.twitter.com/ThcyCHhOGY</a></p>— ESPN (@espn) <a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/1669863771320320000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2023</a>
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<h2 id="JsknSt">5. Henry Godbout, 2B</h2>
<p id="f8LsJ3">Godbout started 51 games as a true freshman, getting on base at a clip of .376 and belting 17 extra base hits. He is another breakout candidate, earning a spot on D1Baseball’s preseason top 50 second basemen.</p>
<h2 id="bQuhQi">6. Henry Ford, 1B</h2>
<p id="BRwfYH">The Charlottesville native, who has been committed to UVA since middle school, is the only freshman on D1Baseball’s preseason top 50 first baseman list. Expect him to slot right into the UVA lineup.</p>
<h2 id="hqrx5v">7. Jacob Ference, DH</h2>
<p id="nq9I8W">Ference comes to Grounds by way of DIII-Salisbury where he was dominant for three seasons, one by which he led the Seagulls to their first ever national title. His 101 games of experience comes primarily from behind the plate, so we may see him give Anderson the occasional night off from the field. Either way, Ference’s bat should be enough to earn him a regular spot in the lineup.</p>
<h2 id="enNz9V">8. Harrison Didawick, CF</h2>
<p id="W81z20">While Didawick’s hitting numbers were not the same as some of his teammates last year, consider that more due to the incredibly high bar they set than anything. He is plenty capable of providing a spark in the bottom of the order, and is the one of the most capable gloves in the outfield.</p>
<h2 id="TQwxEb">9. Eric Becker, 3B</h2>
<p id="uuDDVa">Becker is the most likely candidate to play the hot corner, which would make him part of the pair of freshman corner infielders. He hit the ball with authority throughout the fall and has quality arm strength in the infield.</p>
<h2 id="vPpnyR">Key Reserves</h2>
<p id="vmC110">As far the bench is concerned, we will see which outfielders emerge, as Colin Tuft transfers to Tulane, becoming likely UVA’s most significant loss in the portal. </p>
<p id="KSWs9A">Keep an eye out for Indiana transfer Bobby Whalen, who offers a variety of tools that can slot him into a multiple spots on the diamond. I would not be surprised to see him split time with Didawick in center to begin the season, perhaps as a righty-lefty platoon. Outfield defense would be the one concern this roster has if we had to chose, and Whalen addresses that in a big way.</p>
<p id="gpsteE">Luke Hanson impressed in his albeit little playing time last year, and will be looking for more at bats in 2024. He may challenge Becker for the third base spot, and can also play in the middle infield. </p>
<p id="2j2aNO">Finally, do not forget about Aidan Teel, who as stated in the <a href="https://www.streakingthelawn.com/2024/2/9/24061475/virginia-cavaliers-uva-baseball-virginia-baseball-pitchers-preview-jack-oconnor">pitchers preview</a>, has tools that can translate to either side of the ball.</p>
<p id="25CM1e">With an abundance of dangerous options, there is no reason not to assume the Virginia bats will continue buzzing.</p>
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https://www.streakingthelawn.com/2024/2/14/24072277/virginia-cavaliers-uva-baseball-virginia-baseball-hitters-preview-griff-oferrallDan Siegel2024-02-10T23:18:40-05:002024-02-10T23:18:40-05:00Five takeaways from Virginia basketball’s quality road win over Florida State
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<img alt="NCAA Basketball: Virginia at Florida State" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/tVsQWXSXxA82NQcEqBGDxkgtnEQ=/0x0:3234x2156/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73129699/usa_today_22495203.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Melina Myers-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The ‘Hoos took down the ‘Noles 80-76 for their fourth straight road victory and eight consecutive overall. </p> <p id="Lu3Rik">Virginia travelled to Tallahassee on Saturday night to grab another impressive road victory and remain hot. The Cavaliers improve to 19-5 and remain one game behind first-place North Carolina at 10-3 in ACC play.</p>
<p id="K3B5jx">As a team, UVA shot 10-of-18 (55.6%) from three point range and 26-for-52 (50.0%) overall. Isaac McKneely led the way with a career high 29 points, while Reece Beekman posted 21. Here is what we are taking away from the win.</p>
<h2 id="p2JNPi">Virginia wins on the road once again</h2>
<p id="XmlZHP">As we have seen before, a double digit lead at the under four timeout did not amount to a stress free ending. Some bad fouls, key turnovers, and imperfect free throw shooting gave <a href="https://www.tomahawknation.com/">Florida State</a> hope in the final minute. But the bottom line is that the ‘Hoos eventually sealed the deal and continue to win games away from home. </p>
<p id="IAH2lk">This is a major progression from early in conference play when UVA looked like two completely different teams at JPJ versus on the road. At one point, Virginia was 0-3 in ACC road games with all losses coming by a margin greater than 15 points. Nonetheless, the youth has matured quickly and the Cavaliers have handled the bulk of the ACC regardless of location.</p>
<h2 id="RqcoTk">Isaac McKneely continues to expand his offensive game</h2>
<p id="P44o9t">The Poca, West Virginia native (his high school’s nickname was the ‘Dots’ by the way) is a sharpshooter approaching 50% from three-point range on the season, but this is not a new development. Defenses have recognized his threat to shoot off the catch and limitless range and guarded accordingly. In the recent past and specifically today, McKneely showed he is a much more well-rounded offensive player.</p>
<p id="gE3eX4">He is comfortable with the ball in his hands and creating off the dribble. McKneely was able to get down hill and utilize his floater multiple times, where he is much more efficient than earlier in the season. He will also be fed in the high post from time to time. The step back three where he used his quick release to take advantage of a length defender sagging off was sweet.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">'<br> <br> <br> <br> <br> <br>Mc-Three-ly<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoHoos?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoHoos</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZOaSbAxJDP">pic.twitter.com/ZOaSbAxJDP</a></p>— Virginia Men's Basketball (@UVAMensHoops) <a href="https://twitter.com/UVAMensHoops/status/1756494103460585853?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2024</a>
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<p id="OpySKm">Perhaps most importantly, McKneely was able to get to the line multiple times, where he is by far the best on the team at converting. Those are the progressions McKneely have brought from a role player to a borderline offensive star.</p>
<h2 id="Sgvf7k">Virginia handles Florida State’s athleticism</h2>
<p id="jhd0w7">To preface, this Seminoles squad is nowhere near as capable as the one that 20-pieced the ‘Hoos in a top 15 matchup in 2021. Still, this is a Leonard Hamilton squad that prides itself in athleticism and versatility.</p>
<p id="HJTfnf">Throughout the game, the ‘Noles applied backcourt pressure towards UVA, something that has been their achilles heel in the Bennett era. While Virginia had a few blunders, they handled the press with relative ease, with McKneely, Dante Harris, and even Andrew Rohde acting as capable ball-handlers to complement Beekman. This allowed the Cavaliers to consistently get into their half court offense, where they were absolutely lethal. </p>
<h2 id="NneyR3">This was one of Virginia’s most complete half court offensive performances of the season</h2>
<p id="1WhdWA">Plenty of criticism has been given to Virginia’s offensive sets this year but tonight, they were absolutely cooking on all cylinders. With Jordan Minor in foul trouble and only playing 12 minutes, Bennett often shied away from typical mover-blocker principles in favor of more flowing action.</p>
<p id="zoE5pG">Tonight featured something that is rare in UVA basketball games: no major offensive droughts. Their performance on the defensive end was solid but far from perfect. The Cavaliers maintained their lead throughout the game because they scored in all stages, always having the answer to a key FSU basket.</p>
<h2 id="F7Q8qH">Virginia’s front court depth overcame foul trouble from the starters</h2>
<p id="qTk4De">Minor’s 12 minutes were 11 fewer than his average since the <a href="https://www.bloggersodear.com">Wake Forest</a> game. Blake Buchanan played some huge minutes to spell. He has room to be polished on both ends, particularly at executing the hard hedge, but his competence in guarding the post was critical.</p>
<p id="AGMKqB">Furthermore, Ryan Dunn played 7 minutes below his season average, which allowed Jake Groves time to shine. Groves is lightyears from the defensive player that Dunn is but no longer a liability on that end either. Plus, he adds an outside offensive threat off of the pop that Dunn does not offer.</p>
<p id="08qqnW">After this huge road win, the Cavaliers return home on Tuesday to host the red hot Pittsburgh Panthers. </p>
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https://www.streakingthelawn.com/2024/2/10/24069057/virginia-cavaliers-virginia-basketball-uva-basketball-isaac-mckneelyDan Siegel