UNC baseball squeaks past Wolfpack 4-3 to advance in ACC tournament

With one mad dash, N.C. State's Trea Turner tried to steal home plate — and the North Carolina baseball team's chances of advancing in the ACC tournament Tuesday at NewBridge Bank Park.

"Incredible, courageous play on their part," coach Mike Fox said. "He's been an incredible player to watch and compete against. Probably the best base stealer in the country."

On the throw back to reliever Trevor Kelley in the fifth inning, Turner dashed toward the plate with the speed Fox feared. Turner appeared to slide under the tag from catcher Korey Dunbar, but was called out by the umpire.

"I thought I was safe," Turner said. "I read it good and did everything like I wanted to, call just didn't go my way."

Turner's failed attempt to take home ended the threat from the Wolfpack, who loaded the bases with no outs in the inning and were unable to score. This was as close as the Wolpack would come to home plate the rest of the way, as UNC held on to win 4-3.

The Wolfpack had multiple opportunities to score throughout the game, but each time were stifled by clutch pitching performances from the Tar Heel bullpen.

Leading the charge out of the bullpen was Kelley and freshman Zach Rice, who both entered the game with the bases loaded and refused to give up any runs.

"I'm proud of them coming in and pounding the strike zone and getting a couple big strikeouts," Fox said. "I thought it was huge for them to be able to come in and do that."

The Tar Heels took their lead after a strong third inning. They scored three runs thanks to a triple from shortstop Michael Russell and a double from third baseman Landon Lassiter.

"That big inning helped us there where we were able to put three on the board and get the lead," Fox said. "That’s important, especially knowing we got Trent down there to finish the game."

In the end the Tar Heels turned to their ace, sophomore Trent Thornton, who pitched the last two innings without giving up any hits.

"It's always a very intense game and that's what you want against your rival," Thornton said.

With the win, the Tar Heels move to the round-robin pool. The team with the best record after the three game round-robin stage will advance to the championship game.

"We're obviously very excited to have won and be able to stay here a little bit longer and play three more games," Fox said. "I'm glad we get to continue playing here in the ACC Tournament."