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Queens stuns South Carolina in midweek loss
Gamecocks unable to overcome early deficit against unranked opponent ahead of Clemson series
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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The South Carolina Gamecocks suffered a surprising 9-8 loss to the Queens Royals on Wednesday night at Founders Park. The Gamecocks got off to a disastrous start, with their pitching staff struggling early on. Despite a late comeback attempt, South Carolina was unable to overcome the early deficit and suffered their third loss of the season, all against mid-major opponents. The loss comes just days before the Gamecocks are set to take on in-state rival Clemson in a highly anticipated three-game series.
Why it matters
This loss is a concerning development for the Gamecocks, who are still trying to rebuild after a historically bad season. Dropping games to mid-major opponents, especially at home, could hurt their chances of making the NCAA Tournament, which is crucial for a program looking to regain its footing. The timing is also poor, with a big rivalry series against Clemson on deck, where the Gamecocks will need to be at their best to have a chance of pulling off the upset.
The details
South Carolina starting pitcher Connor Chicoli lasted just two innings, allowing three runs on five hits. Things got worse in the third inning when reliever Parker Marlatt surrendered a three-run homer, forcing head coach Paul Mainieri to pull him mid-at-bat. Freshman Patrick Dudley provided a bright spot in relief, tossing 2.2 scoreless innings. On offense, the Gamecocks struggled against Queens starter Adrian Quezada, who entered the game with a 10.80 ERA but delivered six solid innings. South Carolina made a late push with a four-run ninth inning, capped by a two-run homer from Tyler Bak, but ultimately fell short.
- The loss occurred on Wednesday, February 26, 2026.
- South Carolina will face rival Clemson in a three-game series starting on Friday, February 28, 2026.
The players
Connor Chicoli
South Carolina starting pitcher who lasted just two innings, allowing three runs on five hits.
Parker Marlatt
South Carolina relief pitcher who surrendered a three-run homer in the third inning, leading to his early exit.
Patrick Dudley
South Carolina freshman relief pitcher who tossed 2.2 scoreless innings to stop the bleeding.
Adrian Quezada
Queens starting pitcher who delivered six solid innings, allowing three runs on eight hits, despite entering the game with a 10.80 ERA.
Tyler Bak
South Carolina player who hit a two-run homer in the ninth inning to cap the Gamecocks' late comeback attempt.
What’s next
South Carolina will begin a three-game series against No. 15 Clemson on Friday, February 28, 2026 at 7 p.m. on SEC Network+.
The takeaway
This loss is a concerning development for the Gamecocks, who are still trying to rebuild after a historically bad season. Dropping games to mid-major opponents, especially at home, could hurt their chances of making the NCAA Tournament, which is crucial for a program looking to regain its footing. The Gamecocks will need to regroup quickly ahead of the highly anticipated rivalry series against Clemson.
