JACKSONVILLE, Fla. --Jacksonville Baseball rallied from down 2-1 in the sixth inning to take down North Florida 5-3 on Saturday afternoon.
Senior Colin Rothermel (3-2) got the win for Jacksonville (10-8, 1-1). The right-hander went six innings, giving up two runs, on seven hits, allowing no walks and striking out seven.
Offensively, the Dolphins were led by senior Carson Stevens, who went 3-for-4 on the day with a home run and an RBI. Junior Chandler Howard also delivered, going 1-for-4 with a home run and an RBI. Both homers came in clutch moments, each extending JU's lead and helping to secure the victory. Senior Josh Steidl also contributed for Jacksonville, putting together two hits in four trips to the plate while adding a walk and an RBI.
HOW IT HAPPENED
The Dolphins got on the board immediately, starting their scoring with a run in the top of the first inning. Jacksonville got an RBI single from Steidl, scoring sophomore Jaden Bastian from second base to give the 'Phins an early lead.
UNF then rallied to score two runs and take a 2-1 lead before the Dolphins got back on the board in the seventh. Jacksonville picked up two runs with a clutch single from sophomore Jonah Shields brought home freshman Sammy Mummau and Bastian, which brought the score to 3-2 in favor of the Dolphins.
Jacksonville held North Florida scoreless before building their lead to 5-2 the following inning. The Dolphins scored twice on solo home runs from Howard and Stevens.
North Florida added a late run, but
Nick Anello came in for the save and shut down the game, securing the 5-3 win.
GAME NOTES
- The Jacksonville pitching staff combined to strike out 12 North Florida hitters.
- Bastian stole two bases in Saturday's game.
- Jacksonville pitchers limited North Florida to just 3-for-15 (.200) with runners in scoring position.
- Jacksonville pitchers faced 39 North Florida hitters in the game, allowing eight ground balls and seven fly balls while striking out 12.
UP NEXT:
The Dolphins return to Harmon Stadium tomorrow for the rubber match of the series. First pitch is set for 10:30 AM, and the game will be streamed live on ESPN+.
