North Carolina’s baseball squad is set to face a decisive moment in the College World Series on June 17, with coach Scott Forbes announcing that left‑hander Folger Boaz will take the opening pitch.
Boaz arrives with a 3‑3 record and a 7.03 ERA, having battled a season‑ending elbow injury that kept him out for much of the year. In his most recent appearance against East Carolina he allowed just one run on five hits while striking out four batters.
The Tar Heels sit one victory away from securing a berth in the best‑of‑three championship series, a milestone that has eluded the program for several seasons. In the first two games of the tournament UNC has already deployed four different pitchers, underscoring the depth of the staff.
Behind Boaz, the bullpen includes Caden Glauber, Jackson Rose and Matty Matthijs, all of whom are prepared to step in if the game demands additional arms. Forbes emphasized that the pitching strategy remains unchanged, focusing on execution and confidence.
Redemption on the Horizon
For Boaz, the start represents more than a statistical milestone; it is a personal redemption arc after months of rehabilitation and rigorous conditioning. The left‑hander’s calm demeanor on the mound has already earned praise from teammates and analysts alike.
Scott Forbes, who has guided the staff through a demanding schedule, said the pitching plan remains intact and the focus is squarely on winning the upcoming game on Wednesday.
The outcome will not only shape the immediate series but also influence the broader narrative of UNC’s postseason run, with the Tar Heels hoping to translate this performance into a championship showdown.