RALEIGH — The 2026 season has been full of challenging chapters for NC State baseball. Whether it's injuries, inconsistencies, or just general shortcomings, things haven't clicked to the level many fans have come to expect throughout the lengthy career of head coach Elliott Avent. However, the Wolfpack is still battling, with Tuesday's result being more proof of that. In its return to Raleigh, the Pack played to its ceiling rather than its floor, dominating East Carolina for a second time this season, ultimately winning 12-2 in eight innings. The opportunities for NC State to prove itself are starting to fade away, so wins like Tuesday's feel bigger than they might've earlier in the year. Avent knows that, too, but he also knows challenges remain. Navigating injuries Jun 18, 2013; Omaha, NE, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack head coach Elliott Avent (9) against the UCLA Bruins during the College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park.…