Coach Lonni Alameda and her ninth-ranked FSU softball team made a resounding statement at the 2025 Clearwater Invitational Tournament, hammering the competition to finish with an undefeated 4-0 record. The Seminoles showcased their prowess at the plate and on defense, leaving no doubt that this team is a legitimate contender, deserving of its top 10 ranking.
FSU opened the tournament against No. 16 Missouri, but the Tigers were outmatched by the Seminoles who secured a decisive 9-1 run-rule victory. Redshirt senior catcher Michaela Edenfield was the star of the game, launching a first-inning three-run homer, setting the tone for the offense. Florida State’s home run party didn’t stop there, with four in total, highlighting the depth of their lineup. FSU’s offensive onslaught finished with 9 runs on 12 hits and only 3 strikeouts.
The pitching was equally impressive, with Annabelle Widra in control on the mound for the first four innings followed by Jazzy Francik in relief for the final two. The two combined for 6 strikeouts while allowing only 1 earned run. The Noles defense committed zero errors and FSU rolled over the Tigers for its second run-rule victory over a ranked program in the past two games.
On February 14th, FSU continued its dominance with a 9-1 win over Ohio State. The Seminoles once again capitalized on their power, with another 4-homerun performance for the third time in three games. The team’s ability to score early and often was evident as they jumped out to a 9-1 lead by the end of the second inning.
Strong pitching and defense kept any hopes of a comeback at bay until the game was called in the fifth. Ashtyn Danley picked up the win in the circle with Julia Apsel in relief. The Lady Noles maintained their momentum from the previous day with another convincing outing.
The third day brought FSU a challenge in the form of Wichita State. However, the Noles were up to the task, overcoming an early deficit to win 15-5 in six innings. Kennedy Harp, Michaela Edenfield, and Isa Torres each hit home runs, contributing to the 14 unanswered runs that turned the game in Florida State’s favor. The Seminole offense had scored just one run in the first 4 innings before the offensive explosion took place. Harp and Edenfield went a combined 7-for-7 at the plate.
Makenna Reid, Julia Apsel, and Jazzy Francik split duties in the circle with two innings each. Francik was credited with the win in another solid performance allowing only 1 hit, no runs, and striking out three batters. This proved a testament to the team’s resilience and depth, showcasing their ability to stay cool under pressure and rally from behind.
The final day saw the Seminoles face off against in-state foe UCF, ending the tournament with an 8-1 victory. The Noles demonstrated their dangerous offense with 8 runs on 11 hits and tight defensive play holding the Knights to a single run on 6 hits. Annabelle Widra handled the first 5 innings with Jazzy Francik closing things out in the circle. This game concluded an impressive weekend for Florida State.
Michaela Edenfield, Isa Torres, and Kennedy Harp continue to put on an offensive clinic for FSU. The trio has a combined 48 hits, 10 home runs, and 35 RBI through the first 9 games. Across the entire lineup, FSU has seven batters with double-digit trips to the plate hitting over .300 including three over .400. Kennedy Harp leads the charge by batting an astounding .704 with 18 RBI in 27 at-bats!
The pitching staff, notably Annabelle Widra and Jazzy Francik, have been crucial in limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities throughout the beginning of the season with low ERAs of 0.42 and 0.5 respectively, and a combined 5-0 record. In 30.2 IP, they have struck out 22 batters and allowed just a .188 batting average by opposing hitters.
With this performance, Florida State strengthened its standing among the elite teams in college softball. They now hold an 8-1 record with two ranked wins and five games ending in run-rule fashion. This team’s ability to score in bunches, combined with solid pitching and defense, bodes well for the team’s lofty aspirations as one of the powerhouse programs of the sport.
The Seminoles look to continue their momentum into next week when they host the JoAnne Graf Classic in Tallahassee. FSU will start against FAMU on Thursday, February 20th at 3:30 PM. Southeastern Louisiana and No. 5 Texas A&M are also participating, with games against FSU later in the week and into the weekend. Thanks for reading and Go Noles!
Share this Article with other Nole fans!
