The Florida Atlantic University softball team defeated Florida Gulf Coast University 14-5 on Wednesday at Joan Joyce Field in Boca Raton. This victory marked the Owls’ seventh run-rule win of the season and extended their winning streak to five games. The team remains undefeated at home with a 12-0 record, matching the best home start in program history.
Florida Atlantic (17-6) scored in every inning against FGCU (5-15), setting a new season high with 15 hits. In the opening frame, senior first baseman Yani Guzman stole home after a series of baserunners put FAU ahead early. Guzman later increased the lead by scoring senior third baseman Jesiana Mora in the second inning.
Freshman pitcher Makenna Lee struck out three batters across her first two innings, helping to keep FGCU’s offense contained after an initial surge. Graduate pitcher Ainsley Lambert entered during a critical moment in the fourth inning with bases loaded and limited further damage, maintaining FAU’s advantage.
Redshirt junior outfielder Kylie Hammonds opened the bottom of the fourth with a double before sophomore Lily Holtje hit a two-run homer to extend the lead to 9-5. Lambert finished strong, striking out three consecutive batters and retiring six straight to close her outing.
In the fifth inning, Mora delivered a bases-clearing double that brought three runs home for FAU. Senior catcher Chloe Yeatts capped off scoring with a two-run home run in the sixth.
Among individual performances, six Owls had multiple hits; Guzman led with a career-high three hits. Holtje has now reached base safely in 15 straight games and is tied for most home runs on the team this season with four. Lee earned her fifth win without defeat so far this year.
“Postgame with @CoachJordanFAU#WIPpic.twitter.com/E09XseogwC,” said Florida Atlantic Softball via its official Twitter account.
The Owls will begin American Conference play on Friday, March 6, starting a three-game series against Charlotte. All games will be broadcast on ESPN+.
For more information about upcoming games and updates, fans can visit www.fausports.com or follow @fausoftball on social media.
