Miami Hurricanes coach J.D. Arteaga sees the rival Florida Gators series as the ultimate test, revealing his team's true capabilities and championship aspirations.
The world of sports thrives on rivalry games, whether it's historic or relatively new.
The 17-ranked Miami Hurricanes baseball squad will host the 10-ranked Florida Gators from Friday to Sunday at Mark Light Field. Any chance for an in-state battle between these programs, regardless of the setting, is worth tuning in for.
Both sides started the baseball season on a strong note, with this series considered an early test, but for Hurricanes coach J.D. Arteaga, it's a measuring stick.
"This weekend, we're going to learn a lot about both teams," he told the media on Thursday. "You're not going to win a National Championship or lose one. It's a big series; I understand it's a rivalry. It's really a measuring stick to see where we're at. However, we look this weekend, we've got to be better in June than we are this weekend. We can sweep this weekend and we still got to be better."
"It's just better of a measuring stick as to where we're at right now."
The Hurricanes enter the series with a 10-0 record, currently holding the longest active win streak in college baseball. It's the program's best start to the season since 2013.
The offense has been performing "above expectations," averaging 15.5 runs to start the year. Outfielder redshirt senior Derek Williams has played a major role in the team's hot start. The 23-year-old is up to 18 hits in 32 at-bats, scoring 19 runs, 15 runs batted-in, four home runs, and a slugging percentage of 1.094.
Williams shared that it was his personal mission to start the season on a strong note.
"Last year, I didn't have my best start," he said on Thursday. "This year, I made it a big goal of mine to have my best start. In my offseason training, I did as much as I can to make sure that happened."
Junior catcher Alex Sosa was a key addition to the Hurricanes through the transfer portal after spending two seasons with the North Carolina State Wolfpack. He grew up watching the program and mentioned looking forward to this series before the season began.
"This is going to be super cool," he said. "Growing up, I came to all the games, and the UM vs. UF series is like the biggest thing in Florida. It's everything I've dreamed of."
Sosa is second on the team with 14 hits in 37 at-bats, scoring 17 runs, 18 runs batted-in, and five home runs, including a grand slam.
The Hurricanes' offense will be tested against the Gators' pitching. In seven out of 10 games, they've allowed less than five runs.
The program announced that Friday and Saturday night games are sold out. It should be an ecstatic environment at Mark Light Field.
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