Sharks Fall Short in High-Scoring Battle Against State College of Florida, 13-12
In a game filled with offensive fireworks, the Miami Dade Sharks fell just short against the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, in a 13-12 defeat. Despite an impressive offensive showing with 16 hits, defensive struggles and a pivotal seven-run fourth inning by the Manatees proved too much to overcome.
The Sharks started strong, taking an early lead with a four-run third inning. Michael Petite led the offensive charge, delivering a standout performance by going 5-for-5 with a home run, two doubles, three RBIs, and five runs scored. Talan Beckford also had a big day at the plate, contributing four hits, including two doubles, and driving in two runs. Willy Mendez added to the offensive explosion, finishing 3-for-3 with four RBIs, including a sacrifice fly.
Miami Dade appeared in control early, building an 8-1 lead by the middle of the third inning. However, momentum shifted drastically in the bottom of the fourth, as defensive miscues plagued the Sharks. The Manatees capitalized on four Miami Dade errors throughout the game, with two coming in their decisive fourth inning. Key hits from Mario Trivella and Holden Brauner, coupled with a costly fielding error, allowed State College of Florida to put up seven runs and take a 9-8 lead.
Despite the setback, the Sharks continued to battle. Petite homered in the fifth to briefly put Miami Dade back in front, but the Manatees responded with a two-run homer from Ben Ryan in the sixth and a solo shot from Luke Boykin in the seventh. Miami Dade rallied again in the eighth, scoring three runs to cut the deficit to one. However, SCF reliever Daniel Hartley came in to secure the save, shutting down the Sharks' offense in the final frame.
On the mound, Jose Villegas started for Miami Dade, allowing six runs (only two earned) over 3.2 innings while striking out three. Enrique Sierra took the loss in relief, surrendering five earned runs over 3.1 innings. Despite the loss, the Sharks showed resilience, continuing to fight until the final out.