There's no place like home. The Virginia Cavalier's (15-8) still are undefeated at Davenport Field and currently are riding a six game win streak. They will look to this momentum to carry them over the Maryland Terrapins (6-15) in a three game set, scheduled for this weekend.
Virginia has recovered thoroughly from being swept at then-No. 2 Florida State two weeks ago. They are back to their old selves, playing solid baseball, despite the fact that their disabled list rivals their line-up.
"We've got a nice club and we've had some kids that have filled in for us," Virginia coach Dennis Womack said. "We've had some injuries and some guys that have stepped up when we needed them to play."
Offensive production has been a lingering concern throughout the season. The Cavaliers, however, are beginning to put that concern to rest. Virginia has 10 players batting over .300. As a result, their confidence level is back on par.
"We're riding on team chemistry and on a team high," senior infielder Eric Christenson said. "We have great guys on this team and everybody is behind each other."
Christensen has been one of the key players who have come up big for the Cavaliers amid the recent injuries. He is hitting an even .400 in just 10 at bats and has tallied two RBIs and four runs scored.
Maryland isn't seeing things in quite the same rosy complexion as Virginia. They have managed only six wins this season, and still are looking for their first ACC victory. Teams that are underestimated always have the edge, however, since they have nothing to lose. Virginia will try to keep an even keel and treat this series like any other.
"Every ACC contest is always a dog fight," Womack said. "I know Maryland is looking for their first win, and obviously we don't want them to get one against us. I think we'll be ready to play, and I think they will too."
Looking at raw stats, Virginia holds a clear advantage. The Cavalier's have compiled a team batting average of .323, and the bullpen is sharp, maintaining a 2.84 ERA. Maryland is on the other end of the spectrum, with a low .276 batting average, and an abysmal 7.65 ERA.
According to the numbers, the only thing Virginia has to guard against this weekend is overconfidence. Maryland might be able to pull off a Butler-like performance and pocket a conference win, upsetting Virginia.
Virginia will have a lot of advantages over the Terps this weekend. Their biggest, however, may be the home field advantage.
"We've been playing incredibly well at home, and we just need to continue that," Christensen said.
There's just something about Davenport Field. Maybe it's the stunning, stark blue wall in centerfield. Or maybe the team has a certain affinity for Bermuda grass. Whatever the reason, Virginia loves Davenport Field and they must continue to perform at the top of their game at home this weekend to take the win.
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