Riding an eight-game winning streak and the best start in program history, the top-ranked Gators look poised to make a run back to Omaha, Neb.
But while the trio of quality starters and a deep lineup receive most of the praise, an unsung piece has emerged for No. 1 Florida this season: its pinch-hitting prowess.
While pinch-hitting is arguably the most difficult aspect in baseball, the Gators (18-2, 3-0 Southeastern Conference) are excelling at it.
Entering tonight’s home tilt against the Winthrop Eagles (9-9, 2-1 Big South) at 7, UF sports a .364 average (12 for 33) in pinch-hitting situations.
Jeff Moyer (4 for 8) and Kamm Washington (4 for 7) have been Florida’s most successful substitute batters, coming up with several key hits in pressure spots, including three clutch knocks last week.
“It’s hard coming off the bench,” said Moyer, a Santa Fe College transfer. “Especially after playing in community college where you’re used to starting every game.
“But playing a different role here at Florida, you’ve got to get used to the different situations you’re brought into.
“I’ve been working on getting my mind right and staying positive throughout the game, and when my number is called just going in there and doing my best to get the job done.”
Against Florida State, coach Kevin O’Sullivan pulled senior Josh Adams in the eighth inning in favor of Moyer.
The junior came through, igniting a rally that tied the game.
During Sunday’s win over No. 11 LSU, Moyer was called upon with two outs and two runners in scoring position as UF trailed 3-2.
After getting behind in the count, Moyer responded by barreling a base hit up the middle.
The two-RBI knock put the Gators ahead for good and led to a career day for the transfer.
“It was a huge hit for him,” O’Sullivan said. “He’s going to be a huge factor for us as we go into conference play.”
Moyer said he is always excited to get the call and is glad he has earned his manager’s trust with the game on the line.
“I have the mindset going into the game that Sully is going to call my number in a key situation,” he said.
