Florida Atlantic University baseball lost to the University of Alabama at Birmingham on April 4, giving up a late lead and falling 10-4 in the series finale.
The outcome was significant as it marked the first time in the series that Florida Atlantic scored first, but a strong start could not prevent a late-game turnaround by UAB. The defeat also highlighted struggles by the Owls’ bullpen and defensive errors in critical moments.
Freshman pitcher Garrett Grant started for Florida Atlantic and worked out of early trouble, escaping bases-loaded jams without allowing runs in both the first and second innings. John Martinez drove in Ian Collier with a double to open scoring for FAU in the second inning. The team added two more runs in the third through singles from Michael Perazza and a sacrifice fly from Collier.
Grant allowed just one run over five innings, setting a career-high with six strikeouts before leaving with his team ahead. However, UAB tied the game by scoring off FAU relievers in the seventh inning and took their first lead of the day in the eighth. In the ninth inning, three errors by Florida Atlantic combined with four hits from UAB resulted in six runs for the Blazers.
Despite outhitting UAB 15-14—with Perazza leading at three hits—FAU managed only one consolation run after loading bases again late. Eight of nine starters recorded at least one hit for Florida Atlantic. After Grant’s exit, seven relievers were used; five allowed at least one run.
Looking ahead, Florida Atlantic will have four days off before facing Memphis next weekend beginning Friday, April 10.
