A heartbreaking injury overshadows a thrilling comeback as Florida State Baseball clinches a narrow win, facing an uncertain future without star 1B Myles Bailey.
In any sport, the trajectory of a promising season can change in an instant. In Tallahassee on Saturday, Florida State (21-5, 7-1 ACC) escaped with a 12-11 victory in Game 2 over Duke. But they could not escape the feeling of dread that hung over Dick Howser Stadium in Tallahassee like a specter late in the game.
In the top of the eighth inning, a passed ball and an RBI single allowed the Blue Devils to tie the game at 11-11.
Then, in the bottom of the eighth, first baseman Myles Bailey was on first. An overthrow to first allowed a run to score for FSU, putting the Seminoles ahead 12-11, and allowing Bailey to advance to second.
Bailey attempted a late slide into second and got his foot caught underneath him, which resulted in an ankle injury so severe the game was temporarily halted while medical staff tended to Bailey; he was fitted with an air cast and taken off the field on a stretcher. Later, upon further review, it was determined that Bailey was tagged out on the play, but not before the go-ahead run had scored.
Earlier in the game, Bailey hit his 13th home run of the season to go with 33 RBI. A preseason All-American, Bailey is the heart and soul of the offense for this Florida State team. What appears to be a season-ending injury for Bailey will seriously impact how the Seminoles navigate the second half of the regular season and potentially the post-season.
Florida State starter Trey Beard exited after five innings, as he gave up eight hits, six runs and one walk. He posted five strikeouts. Reliever Chris Knier got the win (2-0) and Gabe Nard got his first save of the season. Caleb Anderson (1-1) took the loss for the Blue Devils.
Duke pounded out 16 hits against FSU pitching on Saturday and left seven baserunners stranded. They also committed three errors. Michael Demartini led the Blue Devils with a double, a home run, and two RBI.
The Seminoles were led by Bailey, Kelvyn Paulino, Brayden Dowd and Hunter Carns, who combined to drive in nine of their 12 runs. Carter McCulley went 3-for-5 with two doubles and two RBI.
It was Florida State’s third consecutive ACC series win and their 16th win at Dick Howser Stadium. The Noles edged Duke 3-1 in Game 1 on Friday.
How to watch Game 3
Date: Sunday, March 29
Time: 1 p.m. ET
Venue: Mike Martin Field, Dick Howser Stadium
Location: Tallahassee, Florida
Streaming: ACC Extra
Radio: 100.7 FM WFLA
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