Another day, another win for R.C Orlan

DURHAM — North Carolina’s wins leader isn’t ace Kent Emanuel or up-and-comer Benton Moss.

It’s left-handed relief pitcher R.C. Orlan, and his teammates have made sure he’s well aware of it.

“We have a couple starters that talk junk about me because I’m always snaking wins,” Orlan said. “I mean, it’s all fun and games as long as we’re winning.”

The Tar Heels clobbered Duke 15-1 Saturday, and once again it was Orlan who picked up the W.

Orlan entered the game in relief of Moss with two outs and runners on the corners in the fifth inning. Though he allowed one of Moss’ runners to score, his 2.1 innings of work helped stabilize the game for the Tar Heels before they exploded for 13 runs in the final four frames.

With the outing, Orlan picked up his team-leading eighth victory of the season.

“Of course he gave up the hit and then the run, but after that he settled in,” coach Mike Fox said. “He’s been good for us this year.”

Orlan has been a steady contributor for Fox and the Tar Heels. The junior has pitched in every weekend series so far this season, and he’s the first UNC relief pitcher since Brian Moran to appear in 30 games in back-to-back years.

His trot from the bullpen has become a familiar sight, but fortunately for Orlan, the effect on his arm has been minimal.

“I do so much arm care and preparation for my shoulders and stabilization and rehab and all that stuff,” Orlan said. “If you don’t care of your arm the right way, it definitely can (wear you out), but with the support staff we have, it’s no problem.”

The lefty’s health is critical for the Tar Heels because he’s often the first arm they turn to when a starter gets in trouble.

And those are the types of high-stakes situations that Orlan relishes.

“Before this season, that’s where I wanted to be,” Orlan said. “I wanted them to come to me in situations like that. So it’s more fun than pressure. And it’s just a great honor that they put that big role on my shoulders.”