In a midweek showdown, the 12th-ranked Florida softball team faced off against in-state rival No. 16 Florida State, ultimately falling 12-3 in five innings at Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium.
The Gators (37-11) took an early lead in the second inning when sophomore Jocelyn Erickson scored on a double by freshman Ava Brown. However, the Seminoles (37-10) quickly responded, scoring 12 runs in the fifth inning to take control of the game.
Despite the loss, Florida’s pitching showed promise, with Brown holding the Seminoles at bay in the third and fourth innings. The Gators’ defense also had its moments, including a highlight-reel catch by junior left fielder Korbe Otis.
In the bottom of the fourth, Reagan Walsh added to Florida’s score with a solo home run, her 15th of the season. However, it was not enough to overcome Florida State’s offensive onslaught in the fifth inning.
The Gators managed to score one more run in the bottom of the fifth, with Skylar Wallace crossing the plate on Walsh’s RBI single. Despite the late effort, Florida fell short, with the game ending 12-3 in favor of Florida State.
Looking ahead, Florida will turn its focus back to Southeastern Conference action, with a series against No. 11 Georgia scheduled for this Friday through Sunday in Athens, Georgia.