North Carolina's Scott Forbes raves about Mac Horvath, Cameron Padgett during regional showdown vs. Iowa

North Carolina star Mac Horvath had been in a little bit of slump over the last two weeks of May, notching only two hits in 19 at-bats. But the junior All-ACC performer is looking like he is turning himself around during at the Terre Haute Regional.

He has only one hit but the hit was a game-changing three-run home run Saturday against Wright State that turned a 1-0 lead into a 4-0 lead in the seventh inning.

Tar Heels manager Scott Forbes was asked about Horvath during his interview with the broadcasters on the ACC Network during Sunday’s elimination game versus Iowa.

“You don’t need to say much with Mac,” Forbes said. “That’s what makes him so good. He’s gonna be level headed. He works his tail off. Every hitter has struggles and he’s grown through that. He’s had his fair share like all have and that’s why he is who he is.”

Forbes started Cameron Padgett for the game versus the Hawkeyes, with the winner set to face Indiana State in the Regional Final.

Padgett lasted 4.1 innings before being relieved in the fifth inning. He gave up five hits and one earned run.

“He pumps the strike zone, tons of strikes,” Forbes said during the fourth inning. “He’s ultra competitive. I like the fact that he can pitch. He’s not afraid to pitch. He got that good changeup. I think he’s gonna be really good. He’s already put on about 20-25 pounds since he’s been here. I know that’s hard to believe by looking at him. But I love him.”

However, Kyle Percival replaced Padgett and immediately gave up a three-run homer.