FLORIDA 9, UNF 0
Kelly Barnhill pitched a no-hitter to lead the #2 Gators (6-0) past the North Florida Ospreys (2-4) on Wednesday. Florida’s offense exploded for nine runs, including seven in the bottom of the fourth inning.
The Gators took an early lead when catcher Janell Wheaton singled up the middle scoring first baseman Kayli Kvistad, who reached by walking.
Florida tacked on another run in the third as Amanda Lorenz scored on a single by Kvistad that bounced off Ospreys pitcher Morgan Blourne. Lorenz raced home after seeing the throw from short being off target. Florida loaded the bases, before reliever Amanda Blanchard struck out Aleshia Ocasio to end the inning.
The Gators then erupted in the fourth frame, adding seven runs on six hits.
It was way more than Barnhill (2-0) needed. Barnhill was in control the whole way through, and just missed perfection by hitting a UNF batter in the fifth inning.
Barnhill finished her five innings of work with 12 strikeouts and only threw 55 pitches (39 strikes). She emphasized working on her riseball during bullpen sessions this week after the game with the media.
Kayli Kvistad finished the game 2-2 with a pair of singles, a walk, an RBI, and two runs scored.
“I’m thankful for the fans that came out to watch our home opener,” coach Tim Walton said after the contest after praising the efforts of his star pitcher and his potent lineup.
Up Next:
Florida will travel to Lafayette, LA to face Louisiana-Lafayette for a three game set Saturday and Sunday. The Ragin’ Cajuns are ranked #16 in the country with a 5-0 record.