Syracuse Softball Loses Series Against No. 6 Florida State

By: Adam Gotkin | @adam_gotkin
Citrus TV Softball Beat Reporter

TALLAHASSEE, FL – After a solid start in the first game of the series against No. 6 Florida State, Syracuse Softball couldn’t maintain its momentum in the second game. The Orange lost 5-1, with the Seminoles’ strong hitting performance proving too much for Syracuse to overcome.
Syracuse’s struggles began early in the game, with Florida State scoring two runs in the first inning. The Seminoles’ patience at the plate paid off as they loaded the bases with two outs before outfielder Jahni Kerr hit a two-run single to put the home team up 2-0.

In the following inning, Florida State added another run to its lead. Infielder Bethany Keen hit a leadoff double down the foul line, and outfielder Kaley Mudge drove her in with a groundout. Syracuse responded in the third inning, with infielder Tessa Galipeau hitting a double to start the frame. Outfielder Gabby Lantier came in to run for Galipeau and advanced to third on a wild pitch before center fielder Alicia Hansen singled up the middle to score Syracuse’s only run of the game.

Unfortunately, Syracuse’s response was short-lived. Florida State generated insurance runs in the fifth inning, with infielder Devyn Flaherty and Kerr hitting back-to-back singles to start the frame. A groundout from catcher Michaela Edenfield restored the Seminoles’ three-run advantage before Keen hit her second double of the game to bring in the final run of the game.
Syracuse’s pitching struggled to contain Florida State’s strong lineup, with right-hander Madison Knight allowing five runs in 4.2 innings. Kaia Oliver came in for relief and contributed 1.1 scoreless innings, but it wasn’t enough to turn the tide in Syracuse’s favor.

Despite the loss, Syracuse has a chance to bounce back in the series finale against Florida State tomorrow at 2 p.m. The game will be televised nationally on ACC Network. After the series,

ajgotkin@syr.edu | @adam_gotkin