CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – Erik Paulsen delivered a dominant performance at the plate, leading the No. 8 University of North Carolina Tar Heels to a 13-3 run-rule victory over Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) on Wednesday at Boshamer Stadium.
The Tar Heels (8-1-1) offense showcased its power, scoring two or more runs in four of the seven innings played. This marks the fourth time this season UNC has secured a win by the run-rule, putting them on pace to surpass the program’s previous high of eight such victories in 2025.
Paulsen, a junior transfer from Stony Brook, was a key catalyst for the UNC offense, recording a hit in all four of his at-bats, including two home runs. According to UNC Athletics, this was his second career multi-homer game, with the first occurring on March 9 of last season even as playing for Stony Brook.
Prior to Wednesday’s game, Paulsen had amassed 13 home runs throughout his collegiate career. He has already added four more while playing for the Tar Heels, demonstrating a continued surge in offensive production. “Really it comes down to timing,” Paulsen said, reflecting on his recent success. “We’re back in the cages talking about timing, approach, and it’s really really helped and I’m so grateful for [my coaches].”
The Tar Heels’ offensive output wasn’t limited to Paulsen’s performance. The team registered a season-high 13 hits, with seven going for extra bases, and remarkably, only struck out twice throughout the entire game.
Shortstop Jake Schaffner also had a standout day, contributing three doubles and three RBIs. Designated hitter Colin Hynek joined the home run parade, launching his first of the season in the fourth inning.
Freshman left-hander Jackson Rose earned the win for UNC, delivering a strong relief performance. Rose pitched three scoreless innings, allowing only one hit and one walk while striking out two batters. His fastball reached a personal best of 93 mph, according to reports. Starter Boston Flannery allowed only one unearned run in 2.1 innings pitched, and also picked off two VCU baserunners.
UNC will next host Le Moyne College in a three-game series beginning Friday at 4 p.m. ET at Boshamer Stadium. While this will be the first meeting between the two programs since 2003, the series history dates back to 1978.
