The No. 11 Florida State Seminoles delivered a thrilling, come-from-behind victory against their rival Miami Hurricanes on Thursday, winning 7-6 in 11 innings with a walkoff, bases-loaded walk. While the entire team contributed to the dramatic win, one player in particular stood out: pitcher Wes Mendes.
Mendes' stellar performance on the mound this season has not gone unnoticed. He has been named a semifinalist for the prestigious Dick Howser Trophy, an award given to the top collegiate baseball player in the nation. It's a well-deserved honor for the Seminoles' ace, who has been a nightmare for opposing batters.
This season, Mendes has posted an impressive ERA of 2.68 with a 9-3 record on the mound. He is the only Florida State player this year to maintain an ERA below 3.00 while pitching in 10 or more games. Over 84 innings pitched, he has consistently shut down lineups, proving to be one of the most dominant arms in college baseball.
The Seminoles are aiming for a back-to-back Dick Howser Trophy victory, as Florida State's Alex Lodise won the award in 2025. Past winners include major league stars like Paul Skenes and Mike Zunino, placing Mendes in elite company.
The regular season is winding down, with Florida State set to play its final two games—both against Miami. The first pitch for Friday's matchup is scheduled for 6 p.m. ET, and fans can catch the action on the ACC Network Extra.
Whether you're a die-hard Seminoles fan or just love following the next generation of baseball stars, Wes Mendes is a name to watch. His journey to the Dick Howser Trophy is one you won't want to miss.