Will Sanders shares what pitching against Florida would mean to him

South Carolina is getting ready to play SEC rival Florida in the Super Regional, competing for a shot to go to Omaha. Ahead of that Super Regional, pitcher Will Sanders shared what the chance to pitch in this series means to him.

Despite coming into the 2023 season with high expectations, Sanders has struggled this season. He has a 5.37 ERA, the worst of his three-year college career by nearly two runs. Because of that, his role for the series isn’t clear.

“Well, hopefully, we don’t make it to a third game,” Will Sanders said. “You know James [Hicks] and Jack [Mahoney] have pitched great for us all year and I’m glad they get the opportunity to start the game, but you know, I was telling [Coach Mark] Kingston earlier this week whatever he needs me to do, whatever the team needs me to do, I’m going to do.”

Will Sanders emphasized that it really matters more to him that the Gamecocks win, rather than he be the team’s hero. Instead, he’ll step into any role where he’s needed.

“As long as we win the two games, and whatever role that falls into this weekend, if I come in and throw 10 pitches or three innings, it doesn’t matter, I’m gonna do everything I can to help win the game.”

Will Sanders was good out of the bullpen during the Regional. However, he has been dealing with a lower body injury. He also has pitched well against Florida in his career. That includes a win in six innings pitched earlier this season.

“It’s definitely cool that it’s Florida,” Will Sanders smiled. “They beat us in the SEC Tournament last year. They ended our season and we’ve been working since then, and it kind of gives us a goal to go down there and beat them. It’s the biggest stage. We’ve got a weekend series to decide who goes to Omaha and that’s been the goal all year is to be in this situation. So, we’re blessed for it and we’re excited for it.”

South Carolina coach Mark Kingston on Florida’s biggest strength

The Super Regional between South Carolina and Florida is expected to be one of the most competitive. Both teams have talent and know one another well.

Ahead of that series, South Carolina head coach Mark Kingston broke down Florida’s biggest strength.

“Well, they have three first-rounders in their weekend rotation. They have a potential first pick overall in [Wyatt] Langford. [Jac] Caglianone will be a very high first-round pick as a hitter or a pitcher next year,” Kingston said.

“They’re just extremely talented. When you’re in the state of Florida like they are, and you’re the only SEC team, you’re going to get the best players in the state of Florida. And we know Florida is one of the top talent-producing states in the country. So they’re always going to be very ultra-talented.”