In a game where NC State found itself down three or more runs two separate times, the Wolfpack once again found a way to win and move their record to 19-0 and 5-0 in ACC play. They are one of two teams left in the country that have not lost a game (Arizona State) and is now the only team without a loss in ACC play.
Florida State jumped out to an early 4-0 lead in the first two innings thanks to a homerun from Drew Mendoza and a triple from Mike Salvatore. The Pack quickly responded with a two-run double from Terrell Tatum and a two-run homerun from David Vazquez. Both teams continued to add runs which ultimately saw Florida State jumping out to an 8-5 lead heading into the bottom of the 8th inning. Florida State Relief Pitcher Jonah Scolaro was unable to hold off the Wolfpack who tied the game on a three-run homerun from Brad Debo that just barely found its way over the left field wall. From then on, NC State seemed to take control of the game. They got further help from Florida State’s relief pitching, who combined to walk 2 batters to start the inning. A wild pitch advanced the two runners to 2nd and 3rd base. Tyler McDonough stepped up to the plate with two outs and it seemed like a forgone conclusion of what was about to happen. McDonough, who was batting a team best .392 when he stepped to the plate, singled right up the middle to give the Wolfpack its 19th win of the season.
Big Picture:
NC State – NC State managed to retain its perfect record and will look to sweep the series tomorrow afternoon against the Seminoles. They will be looking for a stronger starting pitching as they only got 2 innings from starter Reid Johnson today
Florida State – The Seminoles will surely look to avoid the sweep tomorrow and try to find a way to slow down the explosiveness of the Wolfpack bats that has left many teams wondering what happened. It should also be noted that Mike Salvatore became the 9th Seminole to hit for the cycle in the Saturday night matchup.