FGCU defeated Bethune-Cookman 13-5 on March 7 at Jackie Robinson Ballpark in Daytona Beach, Florida, after a powerful offensive showing that included 19 hits.
The game saw FGCU take an early lead, scoring four runs in the second inning. Javier Gorostola hit a three-run home run to left-center field during that frame, giving FGCU a 5-0 advantage. The Eagles continued to build their lead throughout the game.
Bethune-Cookman responded in the fifth inning when Sergio Rivera singled and later scored on Jeter Polledo’s two-run triple. Polledo then came home on a throwing error, narrowing the gap to 7-3. However, FGCU added more runs in the fifth and sixth innings before Jon Embury hit a three-run homer in the seventh to make it 13-3.
Embury led FGCU’s offense with four hits—including a home run and double—driving in four runs and scoring four times. Gorostola also drove in four runs with two hits. Jaret Nelson contributed three hits and an RBI, while Drew Seidel had two hits and scored twice. Chris Diaz earned his second win of the season for FGCU by allowing three runs (two earned) over six innings.
For Bethune-Cookman, Polledo finished with two hits—a double and triple—and two RBIs. Michael Rodriguez and Rivera each had one hit and scored once, while Ruben Zuany drove in a run with a sacrifice fly in the eighth inning. Edwin Sanchez took his first loss of the season after allowing five runs on eight hits over less than two innings pitched.
The Wildcats will conclude their series against FGCU Sunday afternoon at Jackie Robinson Ballpark.
