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Moving Company Myrtle Beach, SC

If you have ever moved to a new house, apartment, or office by yourself, you know how much of a pain it can be. The moving process can be filled with many different emotions. On the one hand, you're probably excited about the new adventure that lies ahead of you. On the other hand, you're probably dreading the heavy lifting, pulling, packing, organizing, and logistical aspects of moving.

At Strong Men Moving, our goal is to remove that dread so you can focus on the fun and productive times ahead. With a team of hardworking, experienced moving professionals on your side, moving to a new home or office is easy, like Sunday morning.

The best part? As local, trusted movers in Myrtle Beach, you won't have to take a loan out from the bank to pay for our moving services. We believe in hard work, friendly attitudes, efficiency, and fair pricing.

Service Areas

 Local Movers Myrtle Beach, SC
 Professional Movers Myrtle Beach, SC

Convenience is King

Strong Men Moving is a full-service moving company in Myrtle Beach. We run our trucks at 110%, meaning we go above and beyond what other movers in Myrtle Beach are willing to do.

Are you moving from out of state? Is your new house hard to find? Don't have the time or patience to pack and wrap all of your belongings? Don't sweat it - we've got your back. There's no job that's too large or too small for our strong men to handle, and there's no place in the Lowcountry that we won't go for you.

When we say convenience is king, we mean it.  We're talking nights, weekends, and availability 24-hours a day from Monday through Saturday. Our goal is to make your move as stress-free and simple as possible. That way, you have time to focus on enjoying your new home or office, while we worry about hauling your double vanity into the back of our truck.

When you bring in the Strong Men, you can rest assured that you're getting a full-service, friendly experience from the minute we pull into your driveway to the minute we shake your hand goodbye. Unlike some moving companies in Myrtle Beach, punctuality is not our poison. We strive to arrive on time to each job that we are hired to perform.

Here are some of the most popular moving services our customers use:

 Packers And Movers Myrtle Beach, SC

Residential Moving

Along with divorce and the loss of a job, moving is listed as one of the most stressful experiences a person can go through in their lifetime. When you consider the packing, the lifting, the scheduling, and the general disruption that moving can have on your life, it's easy to understand why.

As the premier moving company in Myrtle Beach, our goal is to carry your moving burden, so you can stay focused on your daily life. You can rest easy knowing our movers in Myrtle Beach will always show up to your home with a positive attitude, friendly smile, and motivation to work. We treat your property like it was our own and take great care in handling all the items we move for you.

In addition, we prep our team of movers for many situations and provide thorough training on the fundamentals of moving, packing, risk management, and more.

If you own specialty items such as art, antiques, or other valuables, we will take every precaution necessary to ensure your possessions arrive to your new home safe and sound.

Whether you're moving to a new home down the street or are coming from another state, we have the experience, tools, and professional movers to do the job correctly. We even offer additional residential moving services that include packing, unpacking, overnight storage, and much more.

Call or text us today to discover the full range of our residential moving specialties.

 Moving Services Myrtle Beach, SC

Labor-Only Moving

Do you already have reliable transportation but still need a team of professional movers to handle your heavy lifting? Strong Men Moving now offers labor-only moving services in Myrtle Beach for both residential and commercial moving projects.

A few benefits of labor-only moving include:

  • Reduce damage - our professional movers in Myrtle Beach will make sure your belongings are properly loaded into your truck, reducing the probability of damaged or broken items.
  • Maximize Space - With years of experience in the moving industry, we have a sixth sense for space-efficient packing and loading. Our strong men will make the most out of your truck's usable space, which can help reduce trip time and save money on gas.
  • Quicker Moves - A team of Strong Men Moving will almost always be able to load and unload your belongings faster than a group of your friends. It's nothing personal! With our team of professionals, you can spend less time filling up your truck and more time on getting to your new home or office.
  • Save Money - Using your friends to help you move almost certainly means you will have to compensate them one way or another. Why spend your money on cases of beer and pizza when you can use it for a safer, quicker move?
 Movers Myrtle Beach, SC

Commercial Moving

Myrtle Beach and the surrounding metropolitan area is a hot spot for business. Dozens of companies scout Myrtle Beach each year as a new place to call home, where they can broaden their horizons and find new clients. What some businesses do not take into account is the logistics and headaches involved with moving to a new location.

Strong Men Moving has built a reputation as a leader in commercial moving services in Myrtle Beach. We have the tools, team, and experience necessary to facilitate a smooth move for your business at a reasonable price.

In our experience as a commercial moving company in Myrtle Beach, we have discovered that it can be complicated to move to a new business location. During this transition, we know that you need:

  • Your office furniture, equipment, and supplies packed and secured safely
  • Storage space
  • A detailed, efficient plan of action to ensure an organized move
  • Minimal disruptions to your day-to-day operations

To make sure we meet the requirements above, we will speak with you at length about your upcoming commercial business relocation. That way, we get a better understanding of the logistics involved. We will also provide you with a free quote, so you can plan your budget ahead of time.

At Strong Men Moving, some common commercial moving services include:

  • Pickup and delivery of your office equipment and supplies
  • Loading and unloading office items
  • Packing and unpacking your office supplies
  • Assembly of your office furniture
  • Provide all necessary moving equipment and packing materials

Whether you have to move a few office chairs down the street or need help transitioning to a new location, we are here to serve.

 Long Distance Moving Company Myrtle Beach, SC

Refuse Removal and Disposal

Did you find a bunch of unwanted junk after moving to a new office? Do you have an old, stinky couch taking up room in your basement? Don't sweat it - we will remove the old junk from your home or office quicker than you can say, "trash it!"

With Strong Men Moving's refuse removal services, we can haul away all the heavy, unusable items that your trash service won't pick up.

A few common junk removal items that we can remove for you are:

  • Couches
  • Chairs
  • Bed frames
  • Futons
  • Dressers
  • Mattresses
 Long Distance Moving Services Myrtle Beach, SC

Professional Packing

If you're like most average folks living in the U.S., you probably have hundreds of items lying around your house that need to be packed before you can move to a new home. Packing can be a massive source of frustration, especially for busy families and professionals who don't have the time or patience to pack.

Why risk a sprained back or a throbbing headache when Strong Men Moving can handle all the packing for you? With our professional packing services in Myrtle Beach, you can sit back and sip some sweet tea while we pack your keepsakes, furniture, electronics, clothes, and more. If you have valuable items like family heirlooms or fragile china, we will take extra care to make sure those items stay safe and unbroken during your upcoming move.

Why hire a moving company in Myrtle Beach like Strong Men Moving to help you pack? Here's why most of our clients want us to pack for them:

  • Packing is a tedious, time-consuming chore
  • Professional packing minimizes the risk of injury
  • Professional packing reduces the risk of damaged items
  • Professional packing lets you focus on the more important aspects of moving, like setting up HVAC or internet service

Don't have many items to pack this time around? Ask us about our high-quality packing supplies like boxes, tape, furniture pads, and covers. We're here to help in any way that we can!

Moving Company Myrtle Beach, SC

Cleanout Services

If you have a large-scale cleanout project, we can help with that, too. Our home and commercial cleanout services are great if you need to dispose of a large number of items in a short period of time.

All you have to do is give us a call, and we'll come to your location to remove your unwanted items, taking care not to damage your home or office. Once we have removed your refuse, we'll dispose of it in an environmentally-friendly fashion to help protect the Lowcountry we love so much.

A few common cleanout services in Myrtle Beach include:

  • Estate cleanouts
  • House cleanouts
  • Basement cleanouts
  • Garage cleanouts
  • Foreclosure cleanouts
  • Apartment cleanouts
  • Office cleanouts
  • Commercial space cleanouts
  • Storage space cleanouts

General Labor Services

Are you working on a project that requires a team of strong laborers? Sometimes, hiring your friends just doesn't cut it. When you need a team that arrives on time, works hard, and does so with a smile, Strong Men Moving has got the help you need! As trusted movers in Myrtle Beach, we employ seasoned labor professionals that can assist you with your next indoor or outdoor project. Ready to get started? Call or text us today so that we can get a good understanding of your upcoming project, and how our team can save you time, effort, and money.

Get Help Now

About Strong Men Moving

Established in 2019, Strong Men Moving has quickly become a leading moving company in Myrtle Beach, SC. We have built our reputation on reliability, performance, price, and a positive attitude. We truly feel privileged to serve the residents of South Carolina. Our goal is to provide quality customer service with speed and diligence to all clients. We treat all of our customers the same, whether they hire us for a multi-facility commercial move or just need help loading and unloading a moving truck.

 Local Movers Myrtle Beach, SC

Strong Men Moving offers service in the following communities and beyond:

  • Bluffton
  • Charleston
  • Columbia
  • Daniel Island
  • Folly Beach
  • Greenville
  • Hanahan
  • Hilton Head Island
  • Isle of Palms
  • James Island
  • Johns Island
  • Kiawah Island
  • Ladson
  • Mount Pleasant
  • Myrtle Beach
  • Nexton
  • North Charleston
  • Seabrook Island
  • Sullivan's Island
  • Summerville
  • West Ashley

Do you have questions?

Need a quote on your upcoming residential or commercial move? We are here to help however
possible. You can reach us via phone at 843-830-6305 or by email at [email protected].

We hope to hear from you soon!

Latest News in Myrtle Beach, SC

Chavers Has Big Night, Pelicans Sweep Doubleheader with RiverDogs

In a funky Wednesday doubleheader where the Pelicans played one road and one home game in Charleston, the Birds took down the RiverDogs 7-2 in game one and 8-2 in game two. The two wins boosted Myrtle Beach's record to 9-7 while Charleston dropped to 6-11.Detroit Lions vs. Jacksonville Jaguars point spread releasedGame One: The top of the lineup had strong ...

In a funky Wednesday doubleheader where the Pelicans played one road and one home game in Charleston, the Birds took down the RiverDogs 7-2 in game one and 8-2 in game two. The two wins boosted Myrtle Beach's record to 9-7 while Charleston dropped to 6-11.

Detroit Lions vs. Jacksonville Jaguars point spread released

Game One: The top of the lineup had strong performances with Parker Chavers (2-4, 2 HR, 5 RBI) hitting two home runs and Reivaj Garcia (2-4, 2B, RBI) also posting a multi-hit performance. Chavers is the first Pelicans this season to hit multiple home runs in one game. Rafael Morel (2-3) also posted a multi-hit game with a pair of singles.

It was the third start of the year for Cade Horton as he allowed just one hit through four shutout innings and two strikeouts. The win went to Saul Gonzalez (1-1) after closing out the final three innings with two earned runs off four hits and a pair of strikeouts.

Both runs for Charleston came from Odalys Peguero (2-3, 3B, 2 RBI) off a two-run triple. The RiverDogs posted just five hits and went 1-for-4 with runners in scoring position.

The loss went to Marcus Johnson (0-1) after allowing five runs, all earned, in 4 1/3 innings. Johnson allowed the first home run while Alex Cook gave up the second.

The first two frames were scoreless as the Pelicans scored first in the top of the third. Garcia hit a two-out double and Chavers followed with his second home run of the year to right field that gave the Pelicans a 2-0 lead.

Myrtle Beach broke it open with four runs coming home in the top of the fifth. With one out and runners on the corners, Garcia grounded a single to left to score Reginald Preciado from third. Chavers came up with two runners on and blasted his second home run of the game to right field for a three-run homer to put the Birds up 6-0.

One more run came in the top of the seventh off a wild pitch by Cook that allowed Morel to score from third.

Charleston plated two runs in the bottom half as Peguero hit a triple to center field with two runners on to avoid the shutout. Jhon Diaz flew out to complete the 7-2 Pelicans win.

Game Two: Playing as the home team after the April 8 contest between the two teams in Myrtle Beach was postponed, the Pelicans continued their hot hitting with an 8-2 victory. Two more home runs came from Moises Ballesteros (1-3, HR, 3 RBI) and Morel (1-2, HR, 2 RBI, BB). Cristian Hernandez (3-4, 2 RBI) also brought in two with three singles, and Chavers (2-2) smashed two more hits following his game-one performance.

Johzan Oquendo (2-0) tossed three scoreless innings in relief with six strikeouts while allowing just one hit and one walk. Starter Branden Noriega didn't allow a hit but walked five and allowed an earned run while striking out five in his 2 2/3 frames.

The RiverDogs' lineup failed to get a hit until the sixth in the seven-inning contest. Peguero (1-3) and Ryan Spikes (1-4) were the only two players to collect hits in the game. Charleston left nine on base while going 1-for-7 with runners in scoring position.

Game two starter Cade Halemanu (0-2) took the loss with three earned runs across three innings off three hits, one being a home run, and a walk with four strikeouts. Kikito Severino sacrificed the other home run.

Both teams opened play with a run in the first inning. After walking the bases loaded, Noriega balked to score Cristopher Barete from third as the RiverDogs took their first lead of the day.

The Pelicans answered back with a sacrifice fly from Ballesteros to center with Garcia scoring from third to even the game at one.

Myrtle Beach took control with five runs across the third and fourth innings. With two outs in the third, Hernandez singled and Ballesteros smashed a two-run home run to center for his third of the year to give the Birds a 3-1 advantage.

Three more runs scored in the fourth as Jefferson Encarnacion and Chavers both singled to start the inning. Encarnacion would later score on a wild pitch by reliever Jack Hartman and Chavers would be thrown out at home on a fielder's choice play. With two outs in the inning, Morel and Garcia both walked to load the bases and give way for Hernandez, who singled up the middle to score two more runs for a 6-1 Pelicans lead.

Morel's home run came in the bottom of the sixth as he pulled a ball to left-center field with a runner on base to put the Pelicans up 8-1. It was his first of the season.

With Charleston being no-hit until the sixth, they scored their second run in the top of the seventh. With two outs and a runner on second, Spikes hit an infield single to short and Hernandez committed a throwing error on the play that allowed Barete to score to make it 8-2. Estanlli Castillo flew out to right field to end the game.

The series moves to Thursday night at 7:05 p.m. for the fourth game with Myrtle Beach ahead 2-1.

Check out the Myrtle Beach Pelicans Statistics

• Discuss this story on the Carolina League message board...

The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

Myrtle Beach considering year-round pay to park

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — Myrtle Beach may no longer have an ‘off-season’.Visitors and locals may have to pay for parking year-round in Myrtle Beach, WPDE reports.The beach’s current paid parking season currently runs from the beginning of March through the end of October. Between 9 a.m. and midnight, ne...

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — Myrtle Beach may no longer have an ‘off-season’.

Visitors and locals may have to pay for parking year-round in Myrtle Beach, WPDE reports.

The beach’s current paid parking season currently runs from the beginning of March through the end of October. Between 9 a.m. and midnight, neighborhood parking lots and street parking meters can cost anywhere from $2 to $15. The city’s ‘off-season’ may no longer exist if the city council votes for year-round parking.

WPDE spoke with Mark Kruea, the Public Information Director for Myrtle Beach, who said a goal of getting rid of the city’s ‘off-season’ is to decrease confusion about when and where to pay for parking.

“I know that sounds strange, but if you have regular parking throughout the year, there’s no learning curve for everybody when you go back to having paid parking in March or when you go away from having paid parking at the end of October,” Kruea told WPDE.

Myrtle Beach estimates that the new year-round paid parking will bring an additional quarter of a million dollars into the city. Kruea said the new funds will be given back to the city for different projects.

“The parking money gets reinvested back into the area from which it was generated, so it will go back into the downtown projects that we’re doing, the arts and innovation district, and it would also help provide additional parking down the road,” Kruea said.

The question is: how or if this new parking model will impact local businesses? WPDE spoke with Lauren Ross, a local restaurant manager who doesn’t think the change will impact her or other business owners anytime soon.

“Most people have the idea that they have to pay for parking; even when I’ve been outside of Myrtle Beach and I’ve visited somewhere in the off-season, my thought is, ‘Oh, I’m going to have to pay to park,’ whether that happens or not, so I don’t think it’s really going to affect too much,” Ross said. “I’m sure there will be one or two people, but not enough to make a really detrimental impact on business.”

If passed, the change won’t go into effect until July 1; residents and visitors won’t feel the impacts until the beginning of November, WPDE reports.

(WATCH BELOW: US Navy finds debris from Chinese spy balloon off Myrtle Beach coast)

What's bubbling off of Myrtle Beach State Park? We have answers

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WPDE) — This weekend Myrtle Beach State Park visitors shared a video with WPDE showing what looked like a small eruption taking place not far off of the coast.While many followers gave their own assumptions of what the bubbling activity was. Some thought it was potentially related to the offshore earthquake from last week, the mythical creature known as the Kraken, a submarine, and the infamous Red Jeep making its return from the deep (even though it was pulled out of Dorian floodwaters in 2019). All good gue...

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WPDE) — This weekend Myrtle Beach State Park visitors shared a video with WPDE showing what looked like a small eruption taking place not far off of the coast.

While many followers gave their own assumptions of what the bubbling activity was. Some thought it was potentially related to the offshore earthquake from last week, the mythical creature known as the Kraken, a submarine, and the infamous Red Jeep making its return from the deep (even though it was pulled out of Dorian floodwaters in 2019). All good guesses, but not in fact the case.

READ MORE: Google to create one-of-a-kind cable connecting Myrtle Beach to South America

The cluster of bubbles fizzing off the coast was captured by Aaron McAleese.

He said his kids were playing in the water when the bubbles abruptly began- that's when he grabbed his phone and started recording.

“A buddy of mine who was with me, he used to be a diver and that was where he identifies the boat and he said ‘That’s a dive flag on the back of the boat,’ And then the boat moved closer to the bubbling and they threw a buoy into the bubbles and it bubbles for about five minutes, and then it just stopped," he said.

Other witnesses commented that with the bubbling, they noticed another vessel and some diver flags nearby.

One witness told WPDE'S Ed Piotrowski that it was related to, "A directional boring machine is literally sitting in the parking lot up by the shelters. They’re blowing air through the drill head and it’s coming to the surface. You can hear it running from a mile away. My money is on that and probably not submarines, aliens, or any of the other things."

What the viewer is talking about is simply a drilling operation. According to officials with the SC Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism, the bubbling was due to work to install the Firmina cable. At least, that is the 'best assumption' that they can provide us.

SUGGESTED: First sub-sea cable landing in SC coming to Myrtle Beach in 2023

"The footage was captured as horizontal drilling related to the Firmina cable project wrapped up," said Sam Queen the department's Director of Corporate Communications. "We aren't positive it was associated with horizontal drilling, but that's our best assumption."

So, what exactly is this conundrum that's gained the attention of so many of you?

The Vice President of Marketing for DC Blox explains.

“Most recently we've been laying the board pipes that go out under the beach and into the ocean. That's what you're experiencing as part of the bubbling," Bill Thomson, said.

Thomson confirmed DC Blox's sub-sea cable project is correlated to the bubbling, and you can expect to see this happening more often as they continue the project.

“Our responsibility is up to the board pipe which is basically the conduit that the sub-sea cables get pulled. Google would be responsible for laying the sub-sea cables and they’ll come in with ships that come off the coast, lay the cable, and they’ll locate the entry point into the conduit of the board pipes and then pull them through to the connection in the parking lot," he said.

Thomsan said most sub-sea cables on the Eastern seaboard are located in the North.

SUGGESTED: Myrtle Beach leader wants neighboring cities to work together to pursue Smart Cities

He explains why this project is such a big deal.

“These sub-sea cables carry international data traffic and there’s a significantly growing amount of traffic going internationally. So, this provides all local traffic, anywhere in the Southeast to get to international destinations and vice versa," he said.

Google officials chose the Grand Strand as their US location for a one-of-a-kind cable. The Firmina Cable will run from Myrtle Beach State Park and will connect to Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay.

Thomsan said so far they've laid down around 1,000 miles of board pipe.

DC Blox's $31.5 million cable landing is set to be finished in the fall.

Thinking of Moving to Myrtle Beach, SC? Here are 7 Reasons Why You Should

Myrtle Beach, SC, is a coastal city that attracts thousands of visitors each year with its stunning beaches, fantastic weather, and diverse entertainment options. However, the city isn’t just for tourists, it’s also an excellent place to call home. So whether you’re searching for an apartment on Redfin or ...

Myrtle Beach, SC, is a coastal city that attracts thousands of visitors each year with its stunning beaches, fantastic weather, and diverse entertainment options. However, the city isn’t just for tourists, it’s also an excellent place to call home. So whether you’re searching for an apartment on Redfin or looking to buy a home, read on to explore six reasons why you should consider moving to the area and why you’ll love living in Myrtle Beach.

1. Miles of Beautiful Beaches

Myrtle Beach’s biggest draw is undoubtedly its beautiful beaches. With over 60 miles of coastline, residents can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and surfing in the Atlantic Ocean. The city has some of the most pristine and well-maintained beaches in the country, and the stunning views of the ocean make it a paradise for beachgoers.

2. Year-Round Activities and Entertainment

Myrtle Beach has plenty of activities and entertainment options to keep residents busy all year long. The city has several amusement parks, museums, theaters, and water parks. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade offer beautiful ocean views and are home to many restaurants, bars, and shops. With a range of activities available, residents will never run out of things to do.

3. Outdoor Recreation

In addition to its beautiful beaches, Myrtle Beach offers many outdoor recreation opportunities. The city has many parks and nature preserves, including the Myrtle Beach State Park, where residents can enjoy hiking, camping, and fishing. The Intracoastal Waterway is also a popular spot for boating and fishing. If you’re thinking about moving to Myrtle Beach, you’ll love the abundance of outdoor activities available in this coastal city.

4. Affordable Cost of Living

Myrtle Beach has a relatively low cost of living compared to other coastal cities. The city’s housing market is affordable, and residents can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. In terms of housing, Myrtle Beach offers affordable options for both renting and purchasing homes. The median home value in Myrtle Beach is lower than the national average, and there are plenty of options for apartments, townhomes, and other types of housing.

5. Mild Climate

Myrtle Beach’s mild climate is one of its most significant draws for newcomers, making it an ideal place to live for those who love outdoor activities and spending time at the beach. The subtropical climate ensures warm temperatures all year round, with average temperatures ranging from the high 50s in the winter to the mid-80s in the summer. The warm water temperatures and ample sunshine make it a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and kayaking. Even in the cooler months, the beach is a popular destination for walks, picnics, and enjoying the beautiful ocean views.

6. Rich history and culture

Myrtle Beach boasts a rich history and culture that can be explored through its museums, galleries, and landmarks. The Horry County Museum offers insights into the area’s Native American and colonial past, while the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum showcases local art and music. The city’s vibrant cultural scene also includes events such as the Myrtle Beach International Film Festival and the Carolina Country Music Fest.

7. Southern Hospitality

If you’re considering moving to Myrtle Beach, you’ll appreciate the city’s reputation for friendly locals and Southern hospitality. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel right at home in this welcoming and inclusive community. With its laid-back lifestyle and warm-hearted residents, Myrtle Beach is an exceptional place to live and experience true Southern hospitality.

Myrtle Beach, SC, is a wonderful place to call home, offering residents miles of beautiful beaches, a range of year-round activities and entertainment options, and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The city’s affordable cost of living, mild climate, and rich history and culture add to its appeal, making it a popular destination for those looking to make the move. In addition, Myrtle Beach’s welcoming and inclusive atmosphere and the Southern hospitality makes it easy for newcomers to feel at home almost instantly. If you’re considering a move to Myrtle Beach, be aware you might just fall in love with living in this beautiful coastal city.

If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.

Auburn pours it on again, claims upset series win over No. 3 South Carolina baseball

Through three months of the season, the No. 3 South Carolina baseball team featured one of the most fearsome offenses in the country.But injuries have mounted in recent weeks, and USC’s thinned-out lineup struggled for a second-straight game against Auburn on Saturday. Playing without their starting shortstop, third baseman and second baseman, USC fell to Auburn 9-5,dropping just their second series of the season.The series loss is a rare brush of adversity for the No. 3 Gamecocks (34-8, 13-6 SEC), who had vaulted up the ...

Through three months of the season, the No. 3 South Carolina baseball team featured one of the most fearsome offenses in the country.

But injuries have mounted in recent weeks, and USC’s thinned-out lineup struggled for a second-straight game against Auburn on Saturday. Playing without their starting shortstop, third baseman and second baseman, USC fell to Auburn 9-5,dropping just their second series of the season.

The series loss is a rare brush of adversity for the No. 3 Gamecocks (34-8, 13-6 SEC), who had vaulted up the national rankings after sweeping then-No. 3 Florida last weekend.

“My message to the team was, if you think you’re gonna go through an entire 30-game SEC season and never have a little adversity, never have it go against you, then you haven’t followed SEC baseball,” head coach Mark Kingston said. “It’s part of it. So how we handle it is going to be key for how we do moving forward.”

Auburn’s (25-17-1, 9-11) bats picked up where they left off from Friday’s eight-run effort against USC ace Will Sanders, pounding right-hander Jack Mahoney for six runs — including two home runs — in the first two innings. The explosion put the Gamecocks in an imposing hole out of the gate, and USC didn’t have the hitters it needed to spark a comeback.

Kingston had no choice but to trot out a new-look lineup Saturday after the Gamecocks lost shortstop Braylen Wimmer to a hamstring injury late in Friday’s game. Kingston said Saturday that Wimmer could miss up to two weeks. In past weeks, USC lost second baseman Will McGillis (broken arm) and third Talmadge LeCroy (hamstring), sapping the lineup of much of its top-of-the-order punch.

With all of the injuries, catcher Cole Messina started at third base Saturday, Jonathan French started at catcher, Michael Braswell moved from third to short and freshman Will Tippett got the nod at second base. Much like Friday, the lineup seemed overpowered against Saturday starter Christian Herberholz.

The right-hander mimicked the formula teammate Tommy Vail employed in Game 1, using his fastball up in the zone to generate swings and misses. Touching 94 mph, Herberholz struck out six and allowed just one run on three hits in four innings before giving way to the bullpen.

The Gamecocks showed hints of life in later innings, thanks in large part to the efforts of Messina at the plate. The sophomore drilled a two-run double in the fifth inning, then added a two-run homer in the seventh to cut the deficit to three runs. But Auburn first baseman Cooper McMurray hit his second homer of the game in the ninth to take an insurance run back.

With rain in the forecast Sunday morning, Game 3 will start at 3 p.m. instead of its original noon first pitch. The Gamecocks will try to avoid their first sweep of the season. Their only other series loss came on the road against No. 4 Vanderbilt earlier in the month.

“We all have to pick each other up,” Kingston said. “The pitchers have carried us on many days. And on the days where the starting pitchers are not quite as good, offensively we need to try to pick them up. So it’s a team game. You win together, we lose together, and pitchers and hitters have to complement each other.”

Sunday: vs. Auburn, 3 p.m. (SEC Network)

Wednesday: at Winthrop, 6 p.m. (ESPN Plus)

Friday: at Kentucky, 6:30 p.m. (SEC Network Plus)

Saturday: at Kentucky, 2 p.m. (SEC Network Plus)

This story was originally published April 29, 2023, 6:52 PM.

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