Softball team still in search of first win

by Sterling Bright | Sports Editor
RHP Nadia Zenteno delivers a strike for the Rattlers. Photo submitted by Sterling Bright

Coming off a four-game stretch at the Tiger Classic in Louisiana, the Rattlers’ softball team (0-5)  came to JoAnne Graf Field to face the undefeated Florida State Seminoles (6-0). FAMU fell to FSU 10-2 on Wednesday and it is still in search of the first win of the 2020 season.

The Seminoles got off to an early lead in the first inning as 1B Elizabeth Mason crushed a three-run homer off the scoreboard. Although, the Seminoles offense was on full display throughout the game, the pitching was the story of the game.

Despite an early error in the 1st inning, FSU pitcher Kara Bilodeau came back with a strong three up three down second inning. Then pitcher Kathryn Sandercock came back in the third and started right where Bilodeau left off to keep the Rattlers scoreless through three innings.

With the Seminoles having a 5-0 lead heading into the bottom of the third inning, it was the Rattlers chance to make an attempt at a comeback.  However, with two runners on, catcher Chloe Culp launched a three-run homerun to push the lead to 8-0.

Although the Rattlers were unable to overcome this daunting lead, there were bright spots that gave FAMU fans something to cheer for. In the bottom of the third LF Shayla Boyd made a spectacular diving catch that caused an uproar of cheers for FAMU fans at JoAnne Graf Field.

Head Coach Veronica Wiggins addresses the media. Photo submitted by Sterling Bright

Also, despite a slow start by FAMU pitcher Gabriella Williams, Nadia Zenteno came in the game during the second inning to give the rattlers some relief from the early FSU scoring run. Despite Zenteno giving up 4 runs during her three-innings pitched, she did strike out two batters and gave her defense the chance to make plays within the infield.

FAMU Head Coach Veronica Wiggins expressed after the game how she loved how the ladies had fun and that this game will prepare them for the upcoming season.

“The girls had fun, had a great time and we hope to be back here for the regionals when the regionals start,” said Wiggins.

The Lady Rattlers Softball team will be back in action this weekend during the Bubly Invitational in Gainesville,Fl. They start the invitational versus Southeastern Louisiana at 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 14.