FSU softball rolls past FAMU for fourth straight win

FSU softball (4-1) won their fourth consecutive game in the JoAnne Graf Classic with an 8-2 win over the FAMU Rattlers. It was the second win over the Rattlers in the young season, and the game started like the last time they played, with FSU jumping out to an early lead in the first inning. FSU scored four runs with two outs on three hits and scored three more runs on two hits and an error in the bottom of the second. Kalei Harding continued her onslaught with a solo home run in the bottom of the fourth inning to make it 8-2. Harding, Devyn Flaherty, and Jaysoni Beachum had two RBI. Beachum and Harding had two hits each. Ashtyn Danley got the start, going three innings and allowing two earned runs. She allowed five hits, walked one, and struck out two batters. Coach Alameda brought Makenna Reid in the fourth inning, and she finished the game, allowing two hits, one walk, and striking out six batters.

I thought it was good to get Reid some work and help build confidence after looking shaky each time she has taken the mound this season. Reid looked better, but still struggles with control, getting behind in the count, and can't seem to find the release point on her secondary pitch. However, I think it was a step in the right direction to get her where they need her as the leading pitcher on this team. A ton of young players got playing time in this one, which allowed some veterans to cheer while resting. They'll need it because the competition is about to increase when they take the field Thursday in the Shriners Children's Clearwater Invitational. The Noles will face No. 3 Stanford, No. 8 UCLA, No. 6 Georgia, and No. 2 Tennessee. The games will take place at the Eddie C. Moore Complex in Clearwater, Florida. Thursday's game will begin at 4 p.m. and air on ESPNU.