Stingers knock off #19 Gulf Coast State College

PANAMA CITY, Fla. — Florence-Darlington Technical College (FDTC) secured a 9-5 victory over Gulf Coast State College in another preseason Top-20 matchup early in the season.

Florence-Darlington Technical College, ranked #8 in the NJCAA preseason poll, secured a decisive 9-5 victory over Gulf Coast State College, who are ranked #19.

FDTC's offense was relentless, scoring in every inning but the last. The team's offense was bolstered by Jake Zehner, who went 2-for-2 with two RBIs and drew two walks. Tristan Strickland also contributed significantly, driving in two runs and scoring twice himself, while managing a double in four at-bats. The Stingers capitalized on speed with Jace Rainey leading the charge, successfully stealing five bases, contributing to the team's aggressive baserunning that resulted in a total of 13 stolen bases.

On the mound, Gavin MacDonald was instrumental in the victory, earning the win with a strong three-inning performance, allowing no hits or runs while striking out one. Despite a brief challenge by Gulf Coast in the fourth and fifth innings, which saw them score five runs, the Florence-Darlington bullpen held firm. Jackson Mullen pitched 2 1/3 innings, conceding four hits and three runs, but received support from Dylan Shaffer, who closed the game with a scoreless inning, allowing just one hit and striking out one. The Stingers played solid defense, committing no errors, and will aim to continue that in upcoming matchups. Following this win, FDTC is 3-2 in preseason Top-25 matchups this season and are 4-2 overall.

FDTC Top Performers  
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Tristan Strickland  
- 1 2B, 2 RBIs  
- 2 runs, 1 walk, 1 stolen base

Jake Zehner  
- 2 hits in 2 at-bats, 2 RBIs  
- 2 runs, 2 walks, 3 stolen bases

Jace Rainey  
- 1 hit in 2 at-bats
- 2 runs, 2 walks, 5 stolen bases

Gavin MacDonald  
- Recorded the win with 3 innings pitched  
- Allowed 0 hits, 0 walks, 0 runs