Baseball America: 8 For Omaha '17 (SC Hype Already Starting)

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South Carolina

After missing the NCAA tournament in 2015, South Carolina rebounded with a strong 2016, winning the SEC East and reaching super regionals. The Gamecocks return many key pieces from this year’s team, beginning with ace Clarke Schmidt and outfielder Alex Destino, who led the team with 10 home runs. South Carolina was built on its pitching and defense this year and that will likely continue next spring. In addition to Schmidt, No. 3 starter Adam Hill is back, and righthanders Wil Crowe and Cody Morris will be healthy after missing this season due to Tommy John surgery. Lefthander Josh Reagan returns at the back of the bullpen, and righthander Tyler Johnson gives the Gamecocks a power arm capable of starting (as he showed in regionals) or relieving (nine saves). South Carolina will need to replace three of its four leading hitters—Destino is the lone returner who hit better than .300—but if it can get some instant impact from its newcomers or if returners such as Jonah Bride and Chris Cullen can take a step forward at the plate, it has the pitching staff necessary for a deep postseason run.

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