Panthers Looking to Finish Strong

The Pittsburgh Panthers (21-16, 10-11) are currently on pace to exceed the 23 wins they notched last season; they have already surpassed the 9 ACC wins they tallied in 2017. Thankfully for Pitt, they’re starting to put it together down the home stretch.

The team initially struggled to start conference play, losing their first three series against Virginia Tech, North Carolina, and Duke. They went 2-7 in those games which included a sweep at the hands of the Tar Heels. However, the Panthers bounced back in their next three series, winning two games out of three against Virginia, Boston College, and Georgia Tech. Granted, all three of those teams having losing records against ACC opponents.

Basically, Pitt has struggled against the top teams in conference, specifically the Coastal Division, while they’ve mostly taken care of business against the teams occupying the bottom of the standings (sans the Hokies).

Fans should be optimistic as the Panthers play 12 of their last 15 games at Charles L. Cost Field (home), but that includes ACC series against Louisville (solid) and Clemson (very good). Hopefully, the fact that Pitt currently boasts a winning record at home (just 6-5, but still) will allow them to win a game or two in both series to maintain or advance their current third place standing within the division.

Their lone road trip remaining is against Notre Dame in early May. The Fighting Irish are currently second to last in the Atlantic Division with a 8-13 record against the conference. It may be vital for the Panthers to win that series.

Like the softball team, Pitt has taken more than just one step forward this season and a strong close to the season could see them garner an NCAA Tournament bid. As the weather in Pittsburgh is finally starting to become somewhat reasonable, you should consider spending a weekend afternoon at the ball park supporting the team and cheering them on as they look to close the season strong.