Florida A&M University defeated Mississippi Valley State University 6-5 in a baseball game on April 17, after scoring a comeback win in the bottom of the ninth inning at Moore-Kittles Field in Tallahassee, Florida.
The loss came as Mississippi Valley State was two outs away from securing a series-opening victory against Florida A&M, which is tied for first place. The defeat brings Mississippi Valley State’s record to 11-23 overall and 7-9 in Southwestern Athletic Conference play, while Florida A&M improves to 18-17 overall and 13-3 in conference games.
Mississippi Valley State had strong performances from several players. Cody Leming contributed significantly with both of his hits going for extra bases—a two-RBI double and a solo home run—accounting for three of the team’s five runs. Luke Richard pitched six and two-thirds innings, allowing only one earned run and striking out four batters but did not receive a decision. Ty Burns hit a solo home run and added another RBI with a sacrifice fly.
Other notable efforts included Kendall Brookins collecting two hits out of four at-bats, Tanner Aoki reaching base twice through a single and walk, Gabe Huelsing hitting his third triple of the year before scoring, and both Eric Williams and Johnny Escobalez Jr. recording hits before crossing home plate.
Since 2011, Florida A&M leads the series against Mississippi Valley State with a record of 21 wins to just two losses. The Diamond Devils’ last win over the Rattlers was on April 13, 2025.
Looking ahead, Mississippi Valley State is scheduled to face Alcorn Braves next Wednesday for a doubleheader beginning at 1 p.m., pending weather conditions.
