The Wildcats jumped out to a 3-2 lead in the first and tacked on three more in the third. But that was as good as it got.
From there, Georgia methodically dismantled Kentucky, outscoring the Wildcats 10-0 over the final six innings, exposing pitching weaknesses and capitalizing on defensive miscues.
A Game That Got Away
The Wildcats struck first with a three-run blast from Cole Hage in the opening frame, momentarily silencing the Foley Field crowd. However, Georgia, led by former Wildcat Nolan McCarthy, punched right back. McCarthy, who transferred from Kentucky in the offseason, delivered a key two-run double and later scored, helping Georgia stay within striking distance early.
Kentucky added three more runs in the third, including a two-run single from Patrick Herrera, but the offense completely dried up from there. Georgia’s bullpen took control, keeping the Wildcats hitless over the final five innings.
Pitching Woes Continue
The Wildcats cycled through six pitchers, but none found an answer for Georgia’s relentless offense. Nic McCay (2.1 IP, 3 ER, 5 BB) struggled with command, issuing five free passes before Evan Byers relieved him. Things didn’t get better. Kentucky’s bullpen allowed 10 runs on nine hits and six walks, failing to stop the Bulldogs' momentum.
On the flip side, Georgia’s pitching stabilized after a rough first inning. Despite an early exit for starter Charlie Goldstein (0.1 IP, 3 ER), the Bulldogs’ bullpen was stellar, allowing just two hits over the final six frames. DJ Radtke (3-0) earned the win, shutting down the Wildcats in a dominant 1.1-inning relief effort.
Defensive Miscues Prove Costly
While pitching struggled, Kentucky’s defense didn’t offer much help. The Wildcats committed three errors, allowing Georgia to extend innings and capitalize on extra opportunities. A key miscue by Patrick Herrera at third base opened the door for a Georgia rally in the sixth, and a pair of wild pitches led to two more unearned runs.
Looking Ahead
The loss was a wake-up call for a Kentucky team that entered SEC play with high expectations. If the Wildcats want to compete in the nation’s toughest conference, they’ll need to find more consistency on the mound and avoid costly defensive lapses.
The Wildcats will look to bounce back in Game 2 of the series, hoping to even things up against a Georgia team that showed why it’s one of the top squads in the country. First pitch is set for Saturday evening.