The Florida Gators have completed a statement sweep of their in-state rivals, holding off a late Florida State rally to secure a tense 4-3 victory on Tuesday night at Dick Howser Stadium. This marks the first time since 2023 that the Seminoles have been swept in the season series by the Gators, adding another chapter to this fierce collegiate baseball rivalry.

Despite entering the series unranked after a tough 1-3 week, Florida's pitching staff dominated, striking out 11 Seminole batters in the finale. Over the three-game set, Florida State's potent lineup was silenced by an astounding 45 strikeouts, a testament to the Gators' power on the mound.

The Seminoles, ranked No. 5 nationally, fought valiantly to avoid the sweep. Trailing late, Hunter Carns electrified the home crowd with a two-run homer in the eighth inning to pull FSU within one run. The rally, however, was extinguished when Florida freshman flamethrower Joshua Whritenour dialed up 99 MPH to record a crucial strikeout with two runners on base, showcasing the high-pressure talent that defines this matchup.

Florida State starter Cooper Whited battled for 4.1 innings, but two solo home runs—including a two-out shot from Hayden Yost in the third—proved costly. While the Seminoles' late push fell just short, the intensity of this rivalry series underscores the level of competition and passion that makes college baseball so thrilling to watch.