The Maryland Terrapins played their long-awaited home opener on Tuesday against Delaware after spending the first two weeks of the season on the road. With high hopes coming into the season under second-year Head Coach Matt Swope, a win to kick off the home slate would mark a step forward after an up-and-down start to the year.
That excitement quickly faded as the Terps surrendered three runs in the first two innings and 11 by the sixth; Maryland was looking at an 11-3 deficit heading into the seventh inning. But the game was far from over. Chris and Ethan Hacopian fueled the comeback with five RBIs over the next two innings, and Aden Hill backed them up with a two-run blast of his own to cut Delaware’s lead to just one.
The Terps never gave themselves another shot, though. The Blue Hens piled on two more runs in the ninth inning to seal their first victory over Maryland since March 15, 2022.
The Terrapins couldn’t rally late, going down in their home opener 13-10 with a trip to North Carolina on the horizon.
Next Up: Winston-Salem
The Terrapins (3-4) now head south for a weekend slate, squaring off against the Princeton Tigers (0-4) and No. 12 Wake Forest (8-1) in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
After an inconsistent start to the season, the Terps have an opportunity to bounce back against an Ivy League opponent before testing themselves against one of the nation’s best teams in Wake Forest.
Weekend Schedule (All Games in Winston-Salem, NC)
Friday, February 28
12:00 PM ET – Maryland vs. Princeton
Saturday, March 1
11:30 AM ET – Maryland vs. Princeton
3:00 PM ET – Maryland at No. 12 Wake Forest
Sunday, March 2
1:00 PM ET – Maryland at No. 12 Wake Forest
Maryland’s Season So Far: Searching for Stability
The Matt Swope era in College Park has been uneven to start. The Terps have shown flashes of potential but have struggled to find rhythm—particularly on the mound.
After a solid performance at the Swig & Swine Classic, where they picked up wins over UAB and Mercyhurst, Maryland dropped two of three to Western Carolina last weekend, exposing some bullpen inconsistencies.
This weekend, the Terps have a prime opportunity to iron out those issues against Princeton before taking on an elite Wake Forest squad.
Scouting the Opponents
Princeton Tigers (0-4): Searching for First Win
Princeton enters the weekend winless after being swept by Miami, allowing 36 runs in four games while struggling to generate offense. The Tigers are in rebuilding mode, but they have talent that could pose problems if Maryland isn’t sharp.
Despite a rough start, head coach Scott Bradley has some key players who can make an impact. Maryland’s pitching staff will look to take advantage of Princeton’s struggles at the plate and set the tone for the weekend.
Key Players to Watch
Key Pitchers to Watch
#28 Sean Episcope (So., RHP) – The Tigers’ most reliable starter so far, posting a 3.60 ERA and 6 strikeouts in 5 innings.
#51 Jacob Faulkner (Sr., RHP) – An elite bullpen arm, throwing 5 scoreless innings last weekend. He was an All-Ivy League First Team selection in 2024, finishing with a 3.14 ERA and 52 strikeouts over 66 innings.
Insight: Maryland should overpower Princeton offensively, but starting pitching will be key in setting the tone. The Terps need to avoid giving Princeton momentum early and capitalize on any offensive opportunities.
No. 12 Wake Forest (8-1): National Contender
Wake Forest enters the weekend red hot, boasting one of the most well-rounded rosters in the country. With elite pitching and a power-heavy lineup, the Demon Deacons present the toughest test of Maryland’s season so far.
Head coach Tom Walter has built a team that thrives on offensive explosiveness, averaging 11 runs per game. If Maryland wants to compete, it will need strong starting pitching and an early offensive push before Wake’s deep bullpen takes over.
Key Players to Watch
Key Pitchers to Watch
Insight: If Maryland wants an upset, it will need quality innings from its starters and a fast start offensively. Wake Forest’s dominant pitching depth makes scoring late difficult, so the Terps must capitalize on early opportunities before the Demon Deacons settle in.
Maryland enters the weekend with a chance to regain momentum. Taking care of business against Princeton will be crucial, but a competitive showing against Wake Forest could serve as a measuring stick for the Terps moving forward.
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