CHAPEL HILL, N.C. --- Jake Knapp has endured countless challenges throughout his career, particularly due to injuries. However, during a recent stellar performance against Holy Cross, he achieved a milestone that has likely left him feeling both relieved and triumphant. Knapp delivered an impressive 8 ⅓ shutout innings, marking the longest NCAA postseason outing by a pitcher from the University of North Carolina (UNC) since Hobbs Johnson accomplished the feat in 2013 during the College World Series against NC State.
In this remarkable game, Knapp faced 30 batters, achieving seven strikeouts and walking three, all while throwing a career-high 119 pitches. His performance was critical in helping his team advance in the Chapel Hill region. Holy Cross head coach Ed Kahovec acknowledged the challenge presented by Knapp, stating, "That's a tough nut to crack." Despite his success, Knapp was not satisfied with just a solid outing. He aimed for a complete nine-inning game, and with 114 pitches after the eighth inning, he was eager to continue his dominance on the mound.
As the eighth inning wrapped up, Knapp was ready to return to the mound. He expressed his determination, telling his coach, "I'm going back out." Although coach Forbes was initially hesitant, he ultimately agreed to allow Knapp to continue under the condition that he would be replaced if a base runner reached. Unfortunately for Knapp, his outing came to an end after John LaFleur flew out on the first pitch of the ninth inning. Chris Baillargeon then hit a single, prompting the coach to bring in Walker McDuffie to close out the game.
The matchup against Holy Cross was far from easy, as the Crusaders' leadoff hitters were effective, reaching base five out of nine times. They managed to get at least one base runner in six different frames. However, the UNC defense, highlighted by three double plays, was pivotal in maintaining momentum. Gavin Gallaher commented on the significance of these double plays, stating, "Those double plays are huge; they help everybody out." This defensive effort allowed the Tar Heels to regain control and breathe easier during tense moments.
Throughout the game, Holy Cross extended their at-bats, forcing the Tar Heel defense into action. Impressively, Knapp managed to keep a team known for its speed—having stolen 123 bases this season—from advancing on the bases. Brendan Jones from Holy Cross acknowledged Knapp's quickness to the plate, saying, "He does a pretty good job of shutting down the running game." Despite an uncharacteristic three walks, which Knapp attributed to adrenaline, he maintained a strong performance, achieving fastball velocities in the upper 90s when it mattered most.
Reflecting on his previous regional appearance, where he faced disappointment against Iowa after allowing three runs in just 2 ⅓ innings, Knapp emphasized the importance of experience. "It was a good experience for me two years ago," he noted. "Being able to draw back on pitching in the first game of a regional, I learned a lot about managing emotions." This knowledge was instrumental in helping him maintain his routine during this crucial game.
Despite his usual stoic demeanor, Knapp displayed rare emotion during pivotal moments, particularly when he struck out Gianni Royer with the bases loaded. This critical strikeout, clocked at 97 miles per hour, prompted an emotional response from Knapp, who exclaimed in triumph. "I knew in that situation, it was one of those moments where I did have to reach back," he explained. "Not gonna leave anything out there." While his future starts are not guaranteed, Knapp has demonstrated that he will leave everything on the field with each opportunity he receives.
