Get ready for an exciting softball showdown as we bring you live updates from the Clearwater Invitational! The battle between No. 6 Florida State Seminoles and No. 7 UCLA Bruins is about to unfold, and you won't want to miss a single moment!
The Seminoles are eager to prove their mettle after an opening loss to No. 1 Texas Tech. But here's where it gets controversial... they bounced back with a thrilling comeback victory over FAU, showing their resilience and determination. Can they continue this momentum against the mighty Bruins?
UCLA, on the other hand, is no pushover. With a solid batting average of .413 and a powerful lineup, they've scored an impressive 77 runs in just seven games. Senior right fielder Megan Grant is leading the charge with an outstanding .588 batting average and a whopping eight home runs. But their pitching staff is just as impressive, with a collective ERA of 2.49 and 50 strikeouts. Senior right-hander Taylor Tinsley has been a standout, with a 1.22 ERA and 30 strikeouts in her five appearances.
And this is the part most people miss... the all-time series between these two teams is a close one. UCLA leads with a 13-9 record, but FSU has been on a roll in the Clearwater Invitational, winning five of their last six games. Will history repeat itself, or will the Seminoles pull off an upset?
As the game unfolds, we'll keep you updated with all the crucial moments. From starting lineups to scoring updates and significant plays, you'll be right in the thick of the action.
Seventh Inning: FSU 11, UCLA 7
Francik strikes out two batters, sealing the deal for FSU! An incredible performance by the Seminoles, who take the win 11-7.
Sixth Inning: FSU 11, UCLA 7
FSU's offense goes quiet in the bottom half. The Bruins, however, manage to close the gap with an RBI single, making it a 11-7 game.
Fifth Inning: FSU 11, UCLA 6
UCLA gets two runners on base but fails to capitalize. FSU's defense holds strong.
Fourth Inning: FSU 11, UCLA 6
UCLA adds a run via a fielder's choice, but FSU's lead remains solid. Francik's sacrifice fly and a double by UCLA put some pressure on the Seminoles, but they manage to hold on.
Third Inning: FSU 11, UCLA 2
Jaysoni Beachum goes deep again! Her second home run of the game, a 2-RBI blast, extends FSU's lead to 11-2. Marin Heller adds to the onslaught with a 2-RBI double, driving in two more runs. UCLA manages to scratch one across, but FSU's offense is on fire.
Second Inning: FSU 7, UCLA 1
Beachum and Heller continue their hot streak with a double and a 2-run homer. Angelee Bueno adds a triple, and Isa Torres brings her home with a 2-run shot. UCLA's batters go down in order, unable to match FSU's offensive prowess.
First Inning: FSU 3, UCLA 1
Ashtyn Danley's double scores two runs, giving FSU an early lead. Jaysoni Beachum drives in a run with a single, and UCLA responds with a solo home run. It's a tight battle from the get-go!
Starting Lineups:
Florida State:
1. Isa Torres (SS)
2. Marin Heller (2B)
3. Jaysoni Beachum (3B)
4. Ashtyn Danley (RF)
5. Anna Hinde (C)
6. Hayley Griggs (LF)
7. Shelby McKenzie (DH)
8. Makenna Sturgis (CF)
9. Angelee Bueno (1B)
Starting Pitcher: Bella Dimitrijevic
UCLA:
1. Simpson (DH)
2. Grant (RF)
3. Woolery (1B)
4. Bragg (2B)
5. Alejandre (3B)
6. Ramirez (C)
7. Lamar (LF)
8. Garcia (SS)
9. Phillips (CF)
Starting Pitcher: Taylor Tinsley
Clearwater Invitational Schedule for FSU:
Thursday: No. 1 Texas Tech 3, No. 6 FSU 2
Friday: No. 6 FSU 9, FAU 5
Saturday: No. 6 FSU vs. No. 7 UCLA - 7 p.m. on ESPN+
Sunday: No. 6 FSU vs. No. 3 Tennessee - 8 p.m. on ESPN
Stay tuned for more live updates! Who do you think will come out on top in this thrilling softball showdown? Share your predictions and thoughts in the comments below!
