The Florida baseball team failed to win the first game of a three game series against the South Carolina Gamecocks Friday night. Carolina edged the Gators 4-1 in a game where both teams had seven hits.
Friday night marked Florida’s first loss against a top five team this season. The Gators had previously swept both LSU and top ranked Florida State. Jordan Montgomery earned the win for the Gamecocks, improving his record to 5-2. He pitched seven innings, allowing only one run. Closer Joel Seddon came in for relief for Carolina, earning his ninth save of the season.
Florida Head coach Kevin O’Sullivan knew his team needed to do more to get the W.
“We did just enough to stay in the ball game tonight, but unfortunately didn’t do quite enough to get over the hump. I thought Montgomery was really good tonight. He had his changeup going and used his breaking ball early in the count the second time through the order. I thought they played very well. Credit them, but let’s get back out there tomorrow.”
Florida starter and loser Logan Shore also looked impressive, pitching seven innings, allowing four runs.
Florida got off to a promising start in the game, scoring the game’s opening run in the top of the first. With two outs in the inning, Taylor Gushue delivered a single to left that scored Richie Martin. Florida held the lead until the fifth, when Carolina rallied for a three run inning. The Gamecocks added another run in the eighth, putting the game out of reach.
Florida had a chance in the eighth inning, loading the bases with one out all on walks. However, pinch hitter Zack Powers hit into a double play to end the threat.
Game two is Saturday at 4pm; righty Aaron Rhodes will get the start for Florida. You can listen live on ESPN 850 WRUF with Jeff Cardozo and Steve Russell on the call.
For audio from the game, click below.