Brandon McArthur couldn't ask for a much better start to his season.
After hitting what became the game-winning two-RBI double in Friday night's contest, UF's first baseman had another great day Saturday.
McArthur reached base every time he went to the plate, going three-for-three with a double, two singles, a walk and two RBIs. He raised his batting average from .200 to .500 in the contest.
The double, which floated over the center fielder's head just like Friday night's, helped lead UF (2-0) to a 4-0 victory against Siena.
"I got the ball of the middle of the plate, I was able to get good bat on it and I think luckily the wind was blowing out a little bit today, so that gave it a little more range to go," McArthur said.
Still, McArthur remains cautious, not letting these first two wins get to his head.
"Today is over, you know what I mean?" he said. It's another win, I feel great right now, but tomorrow's another game."
The Gators benefitted from another great pitching performance, this time from starter Patrick Keating and reliever Josh Edmondson.
Keating (1-0, 0.00 ERA) retired the first six batters he faced, tallying three strikeouts in that span. He did not allow a hit until the 11th batter, a slow grounder to shortstop Cole Figueroa's right that he couldn't quite get to first base in time.
"I thought the defense played really well and got into a groove," Keating said. "(Second baseman) Clayton (Pisani) turned some really good big-time double plays. Cole made a lot of good plays, he really put in good effort on those balls in the holes."
The outfield also helped Keating, making two fantastic diving catches. Left fielder Avery Barnes dove to his left in the first inning on a deep fly ball, and center fielder Josh Adams made a running grab in the seventh inning on a short hit.
UF coach Kevin O'Sullivan was pleased with the defense as well.
"You've got to rely on your defense," he said. "Josh Adams made a heck of a play in center field today, and I think it would be kind of foolish, to be quite honest with you, not to rely on your defense."
Keating finished his day in the sixth inning. He recorded four strikeouts and no walks in 5 1/3 innings, tying a career high.
Edmonson pitched 2 1/3 innings of relief, retiring all seven of his opponents and notching two strikeouts.
"He's real consistent," O'Sullivan said of the senior. "He's going to throw strikes, he's been around the block a little bit."
UF has not allowed a walk in the season's first two games.
