Louisville’s struggles with pitching once again cost them in a 13-11 loss to Pittsburgh in the first round of the ACC Tournament in Durham. This defeat marks the Cardinals’ sixth loss in their last seven games, leaving them uncertain about their NCAA Tournament hopes.
The Louisville offense did its part, out-hitting Pittsburgh by five and battling back from an 8-1 deficit to tie the game at 11 in the 8th inning. First Team All-ACC selection Eddie King Jr. was a standout performer, going 3-for-4 with a three-run homer, two doubles, a walk, and five RBIs.
A dramatic moment came in the bottom of the 8th when Garrett Pike delivered a two-out, bases-loaded single to even the score. However, the tie was short-lived as Cardinal reliever Ty Starke, who replaced Brennyn Cutts, gave up a two-run homer to Pitt’s Luke Cantwell, which proved to be the decisive blow.
Despite their offensive efforts, Louisville’s pitching issues once again led to their downfall. The Cardinals’ pitchers walked 13 batters and hit two more, contributing to a total of 13 runs allowed despite Pittsburgh only recording seven hits. Additionally, three passed balls further compounded the pitching woes.
This loss extends Louisville’s losing streak in the ACC Tournament to six games, with their last victory in the event coming in their first game of the 2021 tournament. The Cardinals now face an uncertain path as they await their fate in the NCAA Tournament.
