Torres' clutch homers and Francik's dominant no-hitter propel FSU softball to a crucial 4-0 victory, extending their historic rivalry streak.
No.12 Florida State softball (41-7, 16-3) defeated Georgia Tech (29-23, 10-12) 4-0 in the first game of their three game series.
This win helps the Noles in their pursuit of the top overall seed in next month's ACC tournament. The Noles trail Duke by three games, and with six games remaining every game becomes crucial for the garnet and gold.
After the first inning home run by Torres there was a scoring drought for both teams until the sixth inning when Torres hit her second home run putting the Noles up 2-0. Later in the sixth inning Bella Ruggiero would single, scoring pinch runners Angelee Bueno and Madi Frey putting the Noles up 4-0. There was no scoring in the seventh and the game ended 4-0 Noles.
Isa Torres and Jazzy Francik added to their historic seasons in dramatic fashion. Torres led the game with another lead off home run, and then hit a second home run late in the game. For Torres this makes back-to-back games where the All American hit a lead off home run, and had a multi home run game as she did the same thing against the Gators in FSU’s previous game. Torres has now hit eight home runs in her last eleven games and leads the nation batting .588 for the season. For Torres who has twice been named ACC Player of the Week, in addition to previously being named D1 Softball and Sports Illustrated National Player of the Week, this sets her up as one of the leaders for National Player of the Year. Torres has yet to commit an error in the field, and has already been named the top shortstop in the nation by Softball America. Her fifteen homers this season is a career best for the junior.
For Francik she threw her third no-hitter of her career adding to an already outstanding season. Francik who went the distance pitching the entire game is adding to a season where she has already twice been named the ACC Pitcher of the Week. With a record of 18-2 on the mound this year Francik is setting herself up for more hardware later this season, especially if the Noles have a post season that is anything similar to what their regular season has been.
Jaysoni Beachum went 2-for-3 and has now reached first base in 36 consecutive games for the Noles.
Florida State has now won 27 games in a row versus Georgia Tech.
The second game of this series will be played on Saturday night in Atlanta. First pitch is scheduled for 5pm.
Join our ROUNDTABLE community! It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!