JACKSONVILLE, Fla.-- Jacksonville Baseball secured a commanding 8–0 win over Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) on Thursday night to secure the series opening win. Powered by strong pitching and timely hitting, the Dolphins improved their form behind a dominant performance on both sides

Right-handed Senior Richard Long led the way on the mound for Jacksonville, tossing 8.0 scoreless innings while allowing only three hits, one walk, and striking out two. Layton Perry closed out the ninth with a clean inning to preserve the shutout.

The Dolphins broke the game open in the second inning with a five-run burst. Nick Delisi and Sammy Mummau reached base to start the frame, setting up Cade Hentz's two-RBI single. Jonah Shields added a sacrifice fly, and Blake Delamielleure capped the rally with a two-run single to center.

Shields continued his hot night at the plate with a 3-for-4 performance, driving in two runs. Hentz also recorded three RBIs while going 2-for-4. Delisi reached base four times, scoring three runs and collecting two hits and two walks.

Offensively, Jacksonville totaled 11 hits and drew six walks. The Dolphins added insurance with runs in the third and seventh innings, including a wild pitch that allowed Delisi to score the final run.