The weather forced Notre Dame to wait a while, but it eventually completed a 3-2 victory over Texas Tech in its NCAA Tournament opener. Now, the Irish get to face Georgia Southern, host of the Statesboro Regional. You’ll immediately notice that the Irish have the clear edge in pitching, at least as far as ERA and strikeout/walk ratio. The question is whether the Irish relievers pitched too much in the previous game to the point where that advantage will be tempered.
Meanwhile, the Eagles arguably have a slight advantage on offense. Sure, the Irish have slightly bigger numbers in batting average and home runs, but the on-base percentage and the ability to score runs put them somewhat over the top. At the same time, did the eight runs they scored on 12 hits in their shutout win over UNC Greensboro tire them out? Either way, the hitters have to be grateful they have a few hours’ rest before having to back out there.
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