## **Wake Forest Baseball Team: A Roller Coaster Battle Against Pitt**
**WINSTON-SALEM, N.C.** – The Wake Forest University baseball team, boasting a record of **33-17** overall and **13-13** in the ACC, faced an intense showdown against the Pitt Panthers on Saturday. Unfortunately for the Demon Deacons, their **six-game winning streak** came to a dramatic halt as they succumbed to a **10-8** defeat at the renowned **David F. Couch Ballpark**.
### **A Stellar Performance by Fresh Talent**
**Luke Costello**, a promising freshman from Erie, PA, showcased his exceptional talent by launching two home runs during the game—his second multi-HR game of the season—bringing his total to an impressive **six homers** in just **30 games**. His electric **two-run blast in the first inning** followed by a **solo shot in the seventh** not only demonstrated his potential but left the fans roaring for more.
In tandem, junior first baseman **Jack Winnay** delivered an outstanding performance, achieving his team-leading **17th multi-RBI game**. With a remarkable **4-for-5 batting record**, including an RBI double and two crucial singles, Winnay proved to be a key player in Wake’s offensive strategy.
### **Senior Celebration Amid Tension**
Before the contest began, the Demon Deacons took a moment to honor a remarkable class of eight seniors, including familiar faces like **Pat Frick** and **Griffin Green**. Their contributions have helped shape the program into what it is today, and the pre-game tribute was a heartfelt reminder of their journey.
### **How the Game Unfolded**
The game pulse ebbed and flowed through **thrilling moments** as follows:
– **Dominating Start**: Starter Matt Dallas set the tone for the Deacs by retiring the Panthers in order during the first, claiming two strikeouts.
– **Quick Strike**: Wake Forest quickly surged to a **3-0 lead**, capitalizing on a **two-out rally**:
– **Kade Lewis** punctuated the first inning with a double, followed by style from **Winnay** and a powerful **home run from Costello** that registered an exit velocity of **104 mph**.
– **Pitt’s Response**: The Panthers stormed back in the third, scoring **four runs** to take the lead, creating a palpable tension in the stands.
– **Back and Forth**: The score danced back and forth, with Wake tying the game again at **4-4** courtesy of rookie **Matt Conte’s** timely RBI single.
– **Late-Game Drama**: A two-run homer from Pitt in the sixth, coupled with Costello’s second homer, kept spectators on the edge of their seats. Ultimately, however, the Panther’s surge in the eighth, scoring **three runs**, tipped the scales in their favor.
### **Coach Walter’s Reflection**
After the game, Head Coach **Tom Walter** offered candid reflections:
> “It’s a disappointing loss. I truly believe we could have executed better both at the plate and on the mound. Despite the setbacks, I’m proud of our resilience, especially with **six two-out RBIs**. We showed fight, but we need to strategize for tomorrow.”
### **What’s Next for the Demon Deacons?**
Looking ahead, Wake Forest is determined to bounce back and **claim the series** against the Panthers. The decisive match is set for **12 p.m. ET**, notably moved up due to forecasted weather conditions. Fans are encouraged to rally behind the Demon Deacons in this critical final home game.
### **Stay Connected**
Keep up with the latest from Wake Forest baseball by following their social media channels: [**GoDeacs.com**](https://godeacs.com/sports/baseball) | [**Twitter**](http://twitter.com/WakeBaseball) | [**Instagram**](https://www.instagram.com/wakebaseball/) | [**Facebook**](https://www.facebook.com/WakeBaseball/).
