Dawgs thrash Tigers 11-3

ATHENS - Bolstered by a 13-hit attack and a strong start by sophomore left-hander Alex McRee, Georgia trounced Clemson 11-3 Tuesday in front 3,432 at Foley Field.

The Bulldogs (16-10) built a 9-0 lead after four innings and McRee struck out a career-high seven during that span. Sophomore first baseman Rich Poythress went 2-for-5 with a home run and 3 RBI and six different Bulldogs drove in at least one run. Senior Matt Olson collected his team-leading third triple of the year as part of a four-run fourth inning.

McRee earned the win to improve to 4-1 as he did not allow a hit and walked two to go with seven strikeouts. Clemson freshman Craig Gullickson dropped to 3-1 as he was lifted after two innings, surrendering five runs (two earned) on four hits. Then, Georgia chased Clinton McKinney for four four runs on four hits over the next 1.2 innings. The Tigers (18-9) avoided a shutout in the fifth on a sacrifice fly by Jeff Schaus and got a two-run single from Wilson Boyd.

Georgia’s Stephen Brock, Justin Earls and Will Harvil combined to throw the final five innings. Brock allowed three runs and walked four when he came on for McRee in the fifth. Meanwhile, Earns and Harvil pitched two scoreless innings apiece.

“Alex McRee has been real good on the weekends for us, and he was solid tonight,” said Georgia coach David Perno. “He did a great job, and it’s the second time this season I’ve pulled a guy who had a no-hitter going, but we have to get him ready for the weekend.

“It was nice to see our offense respond as everybody chipped in and we hit a few home runs. We’ve got to drive the ball, and when we hit home runs, defend the field and pitch like we’re capable, that’s how we’ve won this year.”

Four Bulldogs had two hits apiece including sophomore catcher Joey Lewis who collected a double and smacked his fourth home run of the year. Clemson aided the Bulldogs with four errors on the night.

The two-game set with the Tigers concludes Wednesday at Clemson. First pitch is slated for 7:15 p.m. ET.