The Austin Peay State University (APSU) baseball team faced a tough loss against Florida Gulf Coast in the Atlantic Sun Conference opener on Friday night. Catcher Gus Freeman’s fifth-inning home run gave the Governors a two-run lead, but Florida Gulf Coast rallied to score eight unanswered runs, ultimately defeating APSU 10-3.
Despite Freeman’s impressive home run, the Governors struggled to maintain their lead as FGCU tied the game in the fifth inning and took control in the sixth. FGCU loaded the bases and capitalized on walks and hits to secure their lead, leaving APSU unable to mount a comeback.
Governors reliever DJ Merriweather suffered his first loss of the season after allowing four runs in the sixth inning. Freeman’s two-RBI performance was a highlight for APSU, but it wasn’t enough to overcome FGCU’s strong offense led by Evan Dempsey, who had a four-RBI day.
The loss puts APSU at 21-15 for the season, while FGCU improves to 19-17. The two teams will face off again in a Saturday afternoon game at Swanson Stadium, looking to make adjustments and secure a win in the remaining games of the series. Despite the setback, the Governors remain determined to bounce back and showcase their talent in the upcoming matchups.