University of Georgia senior outfielder Keegan McGovern hit three home runs in game two of a double header against the University of North Carolina-Charlotte 49ers to lift the Bulldogs to a 10-7 win and a series sweep.
The hat trick gives McGovern six home runs just seven games into the season. His previous season high is the six homers he hit as a freshman. According to the university’s student newspaper, The Red and Black, McGovern’s three homers tied Georgia’s record for most in a game. He’s also only the eighth Bulldog to accomplish the feat.
The Red and Black quoted McGovern after the double header: “I think that when I’m relaxed, my hands can work through the zone. That’s probably the main thing, just go up there and relax and not get too tense and tight or put too much pressure on myself.”
According to georgiadogs.com, the university’s official athletic Web site, head coach Scott Stricklin had this to say: “Keegan is seeing the ball really well. He’s very comfortable, and he’s just loose and relaxed at the plate. He’s got a lot of bat speed, and he’s got a lot of strength. When he’s seeing the ball like he is right now, he’s a tough out because he walked three times. If he’s not getting his pitches, he walks, and that’s what great hitters do. Keegan right now is on fire, and it’s just great to see.”
The Bulldogs won game one 6-4. McGovern was 0-3 with a walk. In game two, McGovern went 3-3 with three home runs, two walks, and four runs scored. He’s now hitting .480 with six home runs, 13 RBI, and seven walks. Georgia is 6-1 on the season.
This is the third of Keegan McGovern’s three home runs.
Video courtesy of Richard Pearce