No. 16 Coastal Carolina defeated James Madison University 16-6 in seven innings on Mar. 22, completing a Sun Belt Conference series sweep at Springs Brooks Stadium.
The win was significant for the Chanticleers, as it marked their first time sweeping a three-game conference series entirely by run-rule. The team has now extended its Sun Belt Conference winning streak to 28 games dating back to last season.
After falling behind early, Coastal Carolina surged ahead with a seven-run third inning that saw Dean Mihos deliver a two-run double and later score on a wild pitch combined with an error by JMU catcher Ryan Gocio. Rex Watson hit a three-run home run during the rally and added another homer in the fourth inning, finishing the game with three hits and seven runs batted in. Over the course of the series, Watson tallied three home runs and nine RBI.
Mihos also contributed three hits, including two doubles, while Ty Barrango had three hits and Blake Barthol recorded multiple hits as well. On the pitching side, Scott Doran earned the win for Coastal Carolina by throwing four scoreless innings without allowing any hits and striking out six batters.
With this victory, Coastal Carolina’s record improved to 16-7 overall and 6-0 in conference play. The Chanticleers are scheduled to play next against No.19 Clemson on Tuesday night at Clemson.
