Barco, Thompson power Gators past Liberty in opener

University of Florida freshman Hunter Barco pitching against Troy / Gator Country photo by David BowieDuring the runup to the 2022 season, much of the discussion surrounding the Gators revolved around their 16-member freshmen class that was ranked either No. 1 or No. 2 in the country depending on which website you trust the most.

So, fittingly, the two biggest stars in Friday’s season opener against Liberty were a pair of veterans.

Third-year sophomore lefty Hunter Barco, making his first start in the ace role, carried a perfect game into the sixth inning. Sophomore right fielder Sterlin Thompson launched a pair of home runs high off of the batter’s eye in center field, including a grand slam…