West Virginia Mountaineers Vs. Maryland Terrapins Preview: NCAA Regional Game 1

OPENING THOUGHTS

After 21 years we’re finally here.

We’ve seen what was originally an eyesore of sports team become successful, new staple of university pride.

The Mountaineers have come a long way since joining the Big 12.

As fans, let’s savor this accomplishment a little.

WHEN/WHERE

Date: Friday, June 2nd

First Pitch: 2:00 PM ET

Where: David F. Couch Ballpark, Winston-Salem, NC

Tickets: General Public

WATCH/LISTEN

Streaming Video: WatchESPN

Radio: Mountaineer Sports Network from IMG (Affiliates)

Streaming Audio: Mountaineer Sports Network from IMG on TuneIn Radio

STARTING PITCHERS

Maryland: Brian Shaffer (7-3, 2.18 ERA)

West Virginia: Alek Manoah (1-1, 3.10 ERA)

NCAA WINSTON-SALEM REGIONAL BRACKET

THE ENEMY

Where are they from? College Park, Maryland (basically Washington, DC)

Series History: Maryland leads the series 39-24-1

Last Time: No. 21 Maryland 7, West Virginia 6 on April 11 in College Park

SB Nation Blog: Testudo Times

Record: 37-21 (15-9 Big Ten)

Head Coach: John Szefc

Baltimore Sun

KEYS TO THE GAME

• Bullpen. The bullpen collapsed against Maryland back in April. If the Mountaineers can get some good outings out of their bullpen, then they should be in good shape.
• Left on base. STOP LEAVING TWO OR THREE RUNNERS ON BASE EVERY INNING!!!

HOW AFRAID SHOULD WE BE? (SCALE 1-10)

Six. I’m as afraid of the Terps as I am of Sheldon the Turtle.

PREDICTION THAT SHOULD BE RIGHT

The Mountaineers exact revenge on the biggest game they’ve played since the Clinton administration.

West Virginia beats Maryland