Manatees Take Two of Three Versus Daytona

Game 1

The Manatees struck early, scoring four runs in the opening inning to immediately seize momentum. Karson Grout helped lead the offense with a strong performance, finishing 2-for-4 with a triple, two RBIs, and two runs scored. Will Rawls also delivered at the plate, going 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI.

Ryan Kaitz added a hit and drove in a run, while Josh Castellani, Holden Brauner, and Steele Burd each contributed RBIs as SCF capitalized on its scoring opportunities despite recording just seven hits overall.

Dominic Woodward reached base twice, scored a run, and continued to provide production near the top of the lineup. Ben Ryan also crossed the plate once after drawing two walks.

On the mound, Lochlan Radloff earned the win to improve to 9-3 on the season. The right-hander worked 4.1 innings, allowing two runs on nine hits while striking out five. Riley McDonald provided key relief work over the final 2.2 innings, surrendering just one run and striking out three to close out the victory.

Daytona State collected 11 hits in the loss, led by David Falloon, who went 3-for-4 with a double, triple, and RBI. Exio Duque added two hits, while John Lopez and Josh Vinciguerra each drove in runs for the Falcons.

After Daytona State settled the game down with four scoreless innings from reliever Alec Bashardoust, the Manatees broke through again late with a three-run sixth inning to create separation and secure the win.

Game 2

SCF powered past Daytona State College with a 10-5 victory, fueled by a historic performance from Josh Castellani and dominant relief pitching from Andrew Raucci.

Castellani delivered one of the biggest offensive performances of the season, blasting three home runs and driving in seven runs to lead the Manatees. The shortstop finished 3-for-4 with a walk, accounting for the majority of SCF's offense in a breakout game at the plate.

Dominic Woodward also played a key role, reaching base three times, scoring three runs, and helping ignite the offense from the top of the lineup. Karson Grout and Ryan Kaitz each added hits and scored, while Holden Brauner, Ben Ryan, and Steele Burd all contributed RBIs.

The Manatees collected 10 runs on eight hits and used patience at the plate to draw five walks. Castellani's first homer helped SCF build an early lead before his two late long balls created separation and put the game out of reach.

On the mound, SCF overcame a shaky start thanks to outstanding bullpen work. Riley McDonald and Daniel Norbeck combined to allow five runs over the first four innings, but Raucci completely shut the door in relief. The right-hander tossed five scoreless innings, allowing just three hits while striking out five to earn the win and improve to 1-1 on the season.

Daytona State stayed competitive early behind a solo home run from Jack Waddingham and three RBIs from Chase Wilson. Miguel Gonzalez scored twice and added a stolen base, but the Falcons were unable to generate offense against Raucci late in the game.

After Daytona State trimmed the deficit midway through the contest, Castellani's late power surge helped the Manatees pull away and secure another conference victory.