By Michael Kennedy
Junior Richie Goodenow had only started one game for Vanderbilt University – and that was last April. His second career start was one to remember. He was there when Vandy needed him the most. Facing elimination, and in the second game of their day, Vanderbilt beat the University of Louisville 7-0 on Sunday, June 6. Goodenow pitched a complete game, 2-hit, shutout. Coming into the game, Goodenow had never thrown more than 5 innings in his career.
When U of L and Vandy played Saturday, June 5, and U of L won 7-1 facing the Commodore’s ace. But the story was different this time.
Louisville starter freshman Justin Amlung went 4.2 innings, giving up 4 earned runs. Three of those came in the fifth, when junior Bob Revesz came in for relief. He gave up 2 earned, without recording an out. Senior Tyler Mathis was then subbed in, and he finished off the inning for the Cards. Vandy scored their 5 runs in the fifth off 4 hits and 3 walks.
U of L and Vandy will now play in an elimination game at 6 p.m. Monday, June 7. The winner will advance to the NCAA Super Regional next weekend. Louisville is expected to be better rested for the game, since Vanderbilt played a 13 inning game against Illinois State on Friday, June 4, and an extra game against Illinois State to fend off elimination on Sunday.
U of L head coach Dan McDonnell, who was suspended by the NCAA for three games after an altercation with umpires in the Big East Tournament, will be back in the dugout for the Cards tomorrow.
