South Carolina Gamecocks hurler Michael Roth entered Game 2 of the CWS final with a 0.96 ERA -- if he's able to contain the powerful Florida Gators lineup, he might actually earn a negative figure. He got off to a shaky start, however, allowing Bryson Smith onto first, where he was then moved along by Nolan Fontana.

Mike Zunino, who mustered three hits against Roth in their last meeting, achieved a walk to put a heap of pressure on Roth right away. Preston Tucker popped to the cavern in TD Ameritrade's center, but a laser by Jackie Bradley Jr. pinned Smith at second. Josh Adams flied out as well, and Roth survived.

USC retorted, with Scott Wingo claiming first base from Karsten Whitson, but Game 1 hero Christian Walker ground into a double play to end the inning.