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WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — There were moments this weekend where Wake Forest fans saw flashes of the offense that had driven the team earlier in the season — but the elusive big inning never quite materialized.
Instead, a combination of elite pitching and timely power hitting from Florida State proved too much. The Seminoles swept the three-game series at Couch Ballpark, taking Friday’s opener 10–0 in seven innings, Saturday’s pitchers’ duel 2–0, and Sunday’s finale 12–6.
Across the series, Florida State’s arms attacked hitters with confidence, and the lineup unfolded with power when it mattered. Wake Forest battled through injuries, strikeouts, and late-inning rallies, with center fielder Javar Williams providing the most compelling offensive spark. But on this weekend, Florida State consistently dictated the series momentum.
Friday: Putnam, Dowd, and Mendes Set the Weekend’s Tone
Florida State 10, Wake Forest 0 (7 innings)
From the opening pitch, it was clear Florida State came to control this series. The Seminoles pounded the strike zone early and often, and Wake Forest pitchers had to adjust on the fly.
The scoring began immediately. Eli Putnam launched a solo home run in the first inning, and Florida State kept the pressure on. Nathan Cmeyla, Brayden Dowd, and Myles Bailey all delivered key extra-base hits that extended the lead inning by inning.
But the story of the game was Florida State starter Wes Mendes, who was nearly flawless. Mendes mixed a heavy fastball and late-breaking pitches to keep the Wake Forest lineup off balance all night. The Demon Deacons managed just two hits against him as he struck out 11 and posted a complete-game shutout.
For Wake Forest, there were a few bright spots in the field — spirited defensive plays from shortstop Dillon Day and second baseman Blake Schaaf robbed multiple would-be extra bases. Reliever Tyler Vann also showed improved control and composure late, striking out a pair while working toward the final outs.
With the scoreboard reflecting early dominance from Florida State, the Seminoles claimed the opener via run rule.
Saturday: Beard Wins the Pitchers’ Duel
Florida State 2, Wake Forest 0
Saturday brought a slower, tension-filled contest where every pitch felt critical. Both teams traded scoreless innings early as Wake Forest kept Florida State off the board for four innings, with senior starter Cade Cox battling through tough at-bats.
But in the fifth inning, Nathan Cmeyla hit a solo home run to break the tie, giving Florida State a 1–0 lead. Beard struck out 14 Wake Forest hitters and allowed just that single hit before handing the ball to reliever John Abraham, who closed out the shutout.
Wake Forest’s lone hit came from Justin Ferri, and outfielder Tre’ Morgan nearly tied the game with a deep fly ball that just went foul. Every attempt to rally was stifled by Beard’s command and Florida State’s disciplined defense. A late insurance run sealed the 2–0 victory, and the Seminoles clinched the series.
Sunday: Williams’ Breakout and a Back-and-Forth Finale
Florida State 12, Wake Forest 6
Sunday finally gave Wake Forest’s offense room to breathe — and center fielder Javar Williams took full advantage.
Williams went 4-for-5 with two home runs and four RBIs, providing energy and hope for the Demon Deacons. His first blast came in the third inning, igniting a small rally, and his second homer brought Wake Forest within striking distance later in the game.
Florida State countered with its own power. Eli Putnam, Brayden Dowd, and Myles Bailey all launched early home runs, and freshman John Stuetzer delivered a grand slam in the eighth inning that broke open the game.
Wake Forest had other bright spots: Cade Cox and Justin Ferri collected multiple hits, and third baseman Luke Costello drove in a key run. But Florida State answered every challenge, ultimately completing the sweep.
Looking Ahead
While the sweep stings, there are takeaways for Wake Forest as ACC play continues. Sunday’s offensive surge led by Williams showed what this lineup can do when timing and confidence align. The pitching staff also displayed depth, keeping Wake competitive in several moments.
Wake Forest now looks forward to the next ACC series, aiming to turn flashes of offensive energy and solid pitching into consistent performances inning after inning.
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