Gamecocks Sweep USC Upstate Rivalry Series at Founders Park

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The University of South Carolina Gamecocks completed a commanding three-game sweep over in-state rival USC Upstate, highlighted by explosive offensive outbursts at Founders Park. The series kicked off Tuesday, March 3, with a 12-3 rout in the opener, where South Carolina erupted for five runs in the sixth inning to snap a 3-3 tie, adding nine more runs across the final three frames. Second baseman Talmadge LeCroy and outfielder Wes Brooks powered the late surge, contributing to the Gamecocks' record improving to 8-5.[1][2][4] Game two saw the Gamecocks continue their dominance with a 13-3, seven-inning mercy-rule win, fueled by early home runs and a six-run sixth inning against the Spartans, who fell to 7-7. In the series finale, South Carolina secured a 6-1 victory, powered by a four-run fifth inning that overwhelmed USC Upstate's pitching staff. These wins at the 8,242-seat Founders Park not only avenged past matchups but strengthened the Gamecocks' grip on Southeast regional standings amid a tough SEC schedule.[3][5] The sweep underscores South Carolina's midweek prowess under coach Mark Kingston, drawing strong local support from Columbia fans and boosting momentum ahead of SEC clashes like the upcoming matchup with Charleston Southern on March 4 at 6:30 p.m. USC Upstate, battling in the Big South Conference from Spartanburg, struggled to contain Carolina's bats, highlighting the Gamecocks' depth in a season poised for postseason contention.[1][4]