NC State's Heath Andrews delivers series-clinching start to knock off Boston College

Junior right-hander bounces back from personal loss to lead Wolfpack to ACC series win

Mar. 15, 2026 at 8:19pm

NC State right-hander Heath Andrews, who hadn't pitched in 12 days due to personal reasons, delivered a dominant seven-inning performance to lead the Wolfpack to a 5-1 win over Boston College and clinch the ACC series. Andrews kept the Eagles' bats in check, allowing just one unearned run on seven hits with four strikeouts. The veteran starter was unfazed by the defensive miscues behind him, showcasing his strong mentality and focus on the mound.

Why it matters

The win keeps NC State in the hunt in the competitive ACC standings, as the Wolfpack look to build on their strong start to the conference season. Andrews' performance was particularly impressive given his recent personal loss and extended break from game action, highlighting his resilience and ability to step up in a crucial situation for his team.

The details

Andrews, a junior from Fincastle, Virginia, hadn't taken the mound for NC State since March 3, missing time due to his grandmother's funeral earlier in the week. Despite the layoff, he was dominant against Boston College, keeping the Eagles' hitters off balance with his 92 mph sinker and slider. He worked around three defensive errors by the Wolfpack, holding Boston College to 0-for-12 with runners on base.

  • Andrews last pitched for NC State on March 3.
  • He missed time earlier this week to attend his grandmother's funeral.

The players

Heath Andrews

A junior right-handed pitcher for NC State who delivered a series-clinching performance against Boston College.

Elliott Avent

The 30-year head coach of the NC State baseball team, who praised Andrews' mental toughness and focus in the win.

Cooper Consiglio

The junior left-handed pitcher for NC State who was used in a relief role to earn the save after Andrews' strong start.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I didn't expect Heath, after what he's gone through, to go out and pitch the gem he pitched today.”

— Elliott Avent, Head Coach, NC State

“He was amazing today. We've been playing good defense. We played very shoddy. If you look at the errors, they were unforced errors. .... It's like, 'what are you doing?' Heath pitching around that, it shows not just how good his stuff was today, but how strong his mentality was.”

— Elliott Avent, Head Coach, NC State

“Just knowing my name got called, [I was] going out there to do the best I can.”

— Heath Andrews

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.