Petry, Messina Named Perfect Game Preseason All-Americans

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – University of South Carolina sophomore outfielder Ethan Petry and junior catcher Cole Messina were named Perfect Game Preseason All-Americans, the organization announced this afternoon (Thursday, Jan. 4). Petry was a first team selection while Messina was named to the third team.

Petry hit .376 batting average with 10 doubles, 23 home runs and 75 RBI during his freshman campaign. The Land O’Lakes, Fla., native scored 55 runs and had a .733 slugging percentage. In the Columbia Regional, Petry was 4-for-12 with five runs scored, a home run and three RBI on his way to being named to the All-Columbia Regional team.

Messina hit .307 with 18 doubles, 17 home runs and 65 RBI in 62 games played in 2023. He slugged .615 and had a .428 on-base percentage while stealing eight bases. Messina threw out eight runners trying to steal this season and had 40 walks and 11 hit-by-pitches.

Both Petry and Messina were named a 2023 Perfect Game All-American. Petry was a first team selection while Messina was named to the second team. Petry also was named a Perfect Game national Freshman of the Year last season.

The Gamecocks open the 2024 season on Friday, Feb. 16 against Miami (Ohio) at Founders Park. First pitch is set for 4 p.m.