The No. 17 Miami Hurricanes saw a tightly contested game slip away late Friday night as No. 10 Florida used a five-run eighth inning to pull away for a 7-2 victory at Alex Rodriguez Park at Mark Light Field.
For most of the night, the Hurricanes were right in the middle of a pitcher’s duel behind a strong performance from right-hander AJ Ciscar. The Miami starter worked seven innings, allowing four runs, three earned, on five hits while striking out six without issuing a walk. Despite the efficient outing, Ciscar was tagged with the loss as Florida’s late offensive burst created the separation.
Florida grabbed the early advantage in the top of the first when Brendan Lawson launched a solo home run to put the Gators in front 1-0. The visitors added another run in the fourth on a sacrifice fly from Cash Strayer, extending the lead to two while keeping Miami’s offense quiet through the opening five innings.
The Hurricanes finally broke through in the sixth inning after putting together a small rally. Jake Ogden started the frame with a double down the right-field line, and Michael Torres followed with a single to move Ogden to third base. After two quick outs, Derek Williams came through with a clutch RBI single that deflected near third base, allowing Ogden to score and cut the deficit in half.
Moments later, Brylan West delivered again for Miami, lining a single to bring home Torres and tie the game at 2-2, energizing the home crowd and setting up a tense finish.
Florida reclaimed control in the eighth inning. Jacob Kendall opened the frame with a solo home run to break the tie, and the Gators continued to pile on with RBI singles, a bases-loaded walk, and a sacrifice fly during the five-run surge that ultimately decided the game.
Miami finished the night with eight hits compared to Florida’s seven but struggled to capitalize on opportunities. The Hurricanes went 3-for-13 with runners in scoring position and stranded seven runners on base.
Derek Williams and Brylan West accounted for Miami’s two runs, each delivering RBI hits during the sixth-inning rally.
Florida starter Liam Peterson held Miami in check early, working 5 2/3 innings while allowing two runs and striking out eight. Reliever Jackson Barberi earned the win after tossing 3 1/3 scoreless innings out of the bullpen.
Florida’s victory also marked a shift in the long-running series between the two programs. With the win, the Gators moved ahead in the all-time matchup with Miami at 137-136-1, breaking what had previously been an even series between the two in-state rivals.
Miami will look to even the series Saturday night as the two teams meet again at Mark Light Field. First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m. and will air on ACC Network Extra.
