Florida State Softball (35-6, 10-1) was down but far from defeated. After being excluded from game one versus Virginia (26-11, 7-6) On Friday, FSU staged a comeback to secure a win over the opponent. Cavaliers , 9-8 in front of an audience of 1400 at the Seminole Softball Complex on Saturday afternoon.
"It was their chance for kids to seize control of both their team and their fate," said the FSU coach. Lonni Alameda said.
I believe that today taught us a valuable lesson: we can either focus on the result or simply go out and compete. When we switched into compete mode, everything fell into place for us.
Following two scoreless frames, UVA got their first points on the scoreboard with four runs in the fourth inning, adding another three in the third and one in the fifth.
FSU came back from a 7-1 deficit by scoring eight runs in the last three innings against the Cavaliers. With just two outs remaining in the sixth inning at the bottom of the ninth, FSU trailed by merely one run.
UVA's pitcher, Eden Bigham, who recorded six strikeouts in the first game, took her place on the mound. Kennedy Harp Hit a two-run home run for FSU to secure their initial lead. Harp gained insights from facing Bigham and understanding her capabilities.
"Frankly, it's all about handling one pitch at a time," Harp stated.
I believe she's an excellent pitcher. Simply focusing on my routine and ensuring my foot is firmly planted. This helps me maintain control and aim for the strike zone. Therefore, I'll do everything possible to support my team.
The defense took care of the remainder. Following a difficult day for FSU's starting pitcher, Julia Apsel and a relieved pitcher Ashtyn Danley , freshman Jazzy Francik assumed control in the fourth frame.
For Jazzy to come and provide us with a great view was significant for our team," Alameda stated. "It was also important for her to demonstrate such composure as a newcomer.
The sole strikeout pitch ignited the Seminoles. She secured her position as the winning pitcher with a record of 6-2. During the final 3.1 innings, she conceded just two hits, one run, a walk, and made an error. This period was rich with valuable lessons for her.
Another notable defensive play came from the left fielder. Addie Delong' That diving catch secured UVA their third out and stranded two runners on base as FSU fell behind 8-5.
At least four batters with at least one RBI each. Harp, Michaela Edenfield and Haille Wacaster each had two RBI . Jahni Kerr led with three hits at bat and one run batted in.
FSU goes back to the Plex to finish their series with UVA on Saturday at noon.
Where to stream FSU softball against Virginia
- TV: ACC Network Extra
- Radio/stream: 96.5 FM, Seminoles.com
- Date/Time: Sunday, April 6th at 12:00 PM
- Where: Seminole Softball Complex, Tallahassee
Peter Holland Jr. reports on Florida State sports for the Tallahassee Democrat. Reach out to him through his email at PHolland@Gannett.com or on X (@_Da_pistol).
The article initially appeared in the Tallahassee Democrat. Kennedy Harp's two-run home run propels FSU softball to a comeback win against Virginia.
