FSU baseball looks to remain unbeaten with midweek game hosting Stetson

FSU baseball (18-0, 3-0 ACC) took a major step towards gaining respectability last week with a win over rival Florida and sweeping Notre Dame to open ACC play. They have a major showdown against No. 4 Clemson on the road this weekend but will host Stetson (13-8, 1-2 ASUN) Tuesday night in midweek action. Can the Noles avoid the look-ahead spot? Stetson has lost three of its last four, including back-to-back losses against Jacksonville. However, the Hatters got a win over Florida earlier this season. Stetson hitters bring a .275 batting average and .383 on-base percentage into the game. They strike out in 21 percent of their at-bats but draw walks better than average. They have hit 43 doubles, 23 home runs, and three triples. Stetson pitchers bring a 4.65 ERA and 172 strikeouts in 176 innings. Opposing batters hit .259, and they have issued 82 walks and surrendered 23 home runs. Defensively, the Hatters bring a .969 fielding percentage into the contest.

Keys To Victory

It's no different than any other game. It's not clear who will start on the mound for FSU. Andrew Armstrong moved to midweek starter last week, with Conner Whittaker moving to a weekend starter. Armstrong has been excellent early this year as he continues to build his endurance. He'll likely get extended a little more than last week, but the bullpen will come into play in this one. The expectations for the FSU offense are they'll continue to put up runs, especially against teams without great arms. The Noles have been excellent defensively lately, with a .984 fielding percentage. It's all about continuing to do the little things and execute situationally. FSU pitchers need to throw strikes and avoid walks, play sound defense, and have good at-bats offensively. The game will begin at 5 p.m. and will air on the ACCNX channel. If you can't watch the game, you can listen via the radio at WFLA 100.7 FM.