South Alabama secured a weekend sweep over West Georgia with a 2-1 victory at Stanky Field on Sunday. The win, which came in walk-off fashion, improved South Alabama’s record to 9-3, while West Georgia dropped to 1-11.
West Georgia opened the scoring in the first inning when Patrick McCullough hit a solo home run. That would be the only run allowed by South Alabama starting pitcher Daniel Gonzalez, who delivered seven innings and set a personal best with nine strikeouts.
Marc Stephens tied the game for South Alabama with his first home run of the season in the fourth inning. The score remained even until the bottom of the ninth. Ty Brooks drew a walk, Ethan Melton singled, and Brennon Wright was intentionally walked to load the bases. Nathan Wood then hit a sacrifice fly to center field, allowing Brooks to score and secure the win.
South Alabama managed two runs on six hits during the game. Leadoff hitter Brennon Wright collected his 20th hit of the season and raised his batting average to .476.
The sweep marks South Alabama’s first series sweep since May 2022.
After Gonzalez left the game, Brian Garmon pitched just over an inning in relief, giving up two hits. Zach Stevens entered in the ninth and earned his first win of the season.
Head coach Mark Calvi said: “Gonzo (Daniel Gonzalez) was outstanding. Gonzo to Garmon to Stevens was really good today. 10 strikeouts, four walks from those guys.”
He added: “Nate (Wood) is probably the smartest baseball guy we have on the team. He understands and knows situational baseball, and knows what he’s got to do. Super happy with Nate staying ready and he’s just a great teammate.”
South Alabama will play UAB next at Riverwalk Stadium in Montgomery on Tuesday night.
For more information about University South Alabama baseball, visit USAJaguars.com or follow @SouthAlabamaBSB on social media.
