Box Score TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Florida A&M split a Saturday doubleheader against Central Connecticut State, cruising to a 4-0 shutout victory in the opener before falling 4-1 in the second game.
Game 1: Florida A&M 4, Central Connecticut State 0
Florida A&M opened Saturday's doubleheader with one of its strongest all-around performances of the season, blanking Central Connecticut State 4-0 behind dominant pitching and steady offense.
The Rattlers were led by
Caleb Granger, who turned in a standout start on the mound. The graduate right-hander worked 6.1 scoreless innings, allowing just two hits and one walk while striking out seven.
Cody Williams came on in relief to help close out the shutout as Florida A&M's pitching staff combined to hold the Blue Devils to just two hits all game.
After three scoreless innings, the Rattlers broke through in the fourth.
Alex Monile scored the first run of the contest to give Florida A&M a 1-0 edge. The Rattlers added another run in the fifth before creating separation in the sixth with a two-run inning.
Colton Ryals came through with a key RBI single in the frame and finished 2-for-3 with two RBIs to pace the lineup.
Florida A&M controlled the game offensively, out-hitting Central Connecticut State 11-2. Every starter reached base safely, and the Rattlers capitalized on their chances by going 4-for-7 with runners in scoring position.
The opener gave Florida A&M a complete team win, built on sharp pitching, timely execution and a lineup that consistently put pressure on the Blue Devils.
Game 2: Central Connecticut State 4, Florida A&M 1
In the second game of the doubleheader, Florida A&M battled but could not overcome an early deficit, falling 4-1 to Central Connecticut State.
The Blue Devils built a 3-0 lead before the Rattlers answered in the fifth inning.
Justen Crews delivered Florida A&M's biggest hit of the game, tripling to bring home
Colton Ryals and cut the deficit to 3-1. The Rattlers, however, were unable to get any closer the rest of the way.
Matthew Perez led Florida A&M offensively, collecting three hits in the loss. Crews added the RBI triple and also drew a walk, while the Rattlers showed patience overall by drawing five walks in the game. Despite putting runners on base, Florida A&M could not find the timely hit needed to put together a larger rally.
Garrett Workman started for the Rattlers and took the loss. Out of the bullpen,
Tanner Walker provided a strong relief effort, tossing 4.1 innings and allowing just one run on two hits. He did not issue a walk and struck out five, helping keep Florida A&M within reach