The UNC baseball program found itself hanging on to a one-run lead in the top of the ninth inning against rival Duke.
With one out, Duke had the tying run on third and the potential go-ahead run on first. In need of a big-time play, Alex Madera turned a double play that quite frankly might already be the play of the year.
In case you missed the excitement, ROLL THE CLIP!
Quite possibly the play of the year from @_amad99! My oh my! 🤯@SportsCenter x #SCTop10 pic.twitter.com/GqbRFmLOmA
— Carolina Baseball (@DiamondHeels) April 4, 2025
Madera fielded a ground ball on the second base side of the bag. He proceeded to hustle to the bag to get the force out at second, and somehow made a perfect throw to first base on the run to complete the double play to end the game.
That sure is one way to secure a victory over your bitter rival from Durham!
The play was a big one in general, but it's even more elevated given which opponent it happened against. If Madera doesn't turn that double play, Duke ties the game, and who knows what happens in the bottom half of the ninth or even in extra innings.
One play could really change an entire series.
Madera and the UNC baseball program aim to secure a series victory over the Duke Blue Devils on Friday night at Boshamer Stadium. First pitch in Chapel Hill is scheduled for 6:00 PM EST.