Florida Gulf Coast University defeated Jacksonville on May 15, securing a first-round bye in the upcoming Atlantic Sun Conference Tournament and recording double-digit strikeouts for the 32nd time this season.
The Eagles’ victory was highlighted by a three-run fifth inning, which included a two-run home run from Evan Dempsey. This marked Dempsey’s tenth home run of the year, making him the fourth Eagle to reach double digits in home runs this season. In addition to his offensive contribution, Dempsey also excelled on the mound, striking out ten batters over six innings while allowing only two runs on four hits and walking two. Earlier in the day, he had been named a semifinalist for both the Golden Spikes Award and the Dick Howser Trophy.
Relief pitcher Ashton Pocol earned his fifth save of the season—his eleventh career save—by striking out four batters and allowing just one hit across three scoreless innings. Blake Edmonds contributed offensively with two runs scored, while Roger Vergara added consistency at the plate with one hit and a walk. For Jacksonville, Kyle Hopper suffered his first loss of the season after conceding three runs on three hits in less than an inning.
Jacksonville took an early lead in the third inning before Florida Gulf Coast responded decisively in the fifth. Drew Seidel singled ahead of Dempsey’s home run that put FGCU ahead. Wilfred Gonzalez extended their lead with an RBI single later that inning.
With this win, Florida Gulf Coast clinched second place in their division and extended their conference winning streak to nine games. The Eagles now hold a 42–29 all-time series advantage over Jacksonville and improved their record when playing at John Sessions Stadium to 13–15.
The team will look to continue its momentum when it faces Jacksonville again on Friday night.
