It was a cold night in Gainesville on Friday, but for six innings, it was Florida’s bats that were the most frigid.
The Gators struggled against Troy’s ace, Levi Thomas, but pounced at the first opportunity against the Trojans’ bullpen to record a come from behind 3-2 victory on Friday.
The win moves Florida to 9-0 on the season, the program’s best start to a season under Kevin O’Sullivan.
How It Happened:
The Trojans got on the scoreboard early with a first inning RBI single by Caleb Bartolero and added a run in the third inning on an RBI groundout by Easton Kirk.
Thomas kept the Gators’ hitter off balance all game, but his pitch count soared as Florida saw a lot of pitches in each at bat. Thomas finished the night with 108 pitches through six innings.
The Gators welcomed Troy’s relief by plating three runs in the seventh inning.
After a single and walk, Austin Langworthy delivered with a two out single to center that was misplayed by Trojans CF Reed Smith, allowing Josh Rivera to score.
One batter later, Kirby McMullen lined a shot just over the shortstop’s outstretched glove and into left field that scored both Nathan Hickey and Langworthy to put Florida on top.
Nick Pogue and Ben Specht finished the night by striking out the side. Specht earned his first save of 2020.
Starter Tommy Mace pitched well and earned the win. Despite scattering nine hits, the righty only gave up two runs and didn’t walk anyone in seven innings of work.
Individual Stats:
- Langworthy: 3-4, 2B, RBI, R
- Young: 2-4
- McMullen: 1-4, 2 RBI
Pitching Decision:
- W: Mace (2-0)
- L: Thomas (2-1)
- S: Specht (1)
What’s Next:
Florida will continue its series against Troy on Saturday and Sunday. The first pitch on Saturday is slated for 4:00 PM while Sunday is scheduled for a 1:00 PM start.
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