ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFKnights.com) - The UCF baseball team fell 5-0 to No. 2 Florida State at the UCF Baseball Complex Wednesday, as the Seminoles took both games in the midweek series. The Knights' first loss was also to a top-five opponent, coming back on Feb. 28 when the squad dropped a close 4-3 game to then-No. 2 Florida on the road.
The best chance for the Black and Gold to get on the board came in the eighth inning. First baseman Austin Griffin drew a lead off walk and third baseman Matthew Mika added a single up the middle. With one out, right fielder Eli Putnam placed a bunt down the third baseline and beat out the throw for an infield hit. With the bases loaded, outfielder Luke Hamblin smacked a line drive, but unfortunately it was right at the third baseman who then doubled up Griffin after a race to the bag.
Florida State was selective at the plate, drawing nine walks. The visitors posted three runs in the third and two more in the fifth. The home team was charged with three errors. The two teams each had seven hits and Knights pitchers recorded 13 strikeouts but the offense was unable to produce.
UCF drops to 11-3 on the season and 11-2 at home. Seven pitchers saw action for the home team, including starter Joe Sheridan (2-1) who took his first loss of the season. The bullpen combined for eight strikeouts, including three from left-hander Bryce Tucker who struck out the side in his only inning of work.
Next up, the Knights host Central Michigan for a three-game series Mar. 10-12. Friday's first pitch is at 6:30 p.m. and tickets can be purchased in advance by clicking here or by calling 407-UCF-1000.
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