BREAKING: Florida State University (FSU) baseball has officially announced that Wes Mendes will take the mound as the Opening Day starter against James Madison University this Friday. Head coach Link Jarrett confirmed Mendes’ position, citing his impressive performance and growth as key factors in the decision.
Mendes, who finished last season with a 5.42 ERA and a 7-3 record, is determined to set the tone for the Seminoles’ season. He recorded 90 strikeouts and issued 39 walks last year, but has since refined his pitching arsenal, adding a cutter to generate weak contact. “All his stuff is there, and the metrics on every pitch reflect that,” Jarrett stated.
The urgency is palpable as Mendes prepares to face a challenging JMU lineup. He expressed excitement about his new role, saying, “It’s awesome to have the trust of the coach to get the series started.” The lefty aims to improve his consistency this season, focusing on executing pitches and keeping his pitch count in check.
Also joining the weekend rotation, Trey Beard, a standout transfer from Florida Atlantic University (FAU), will start on Saturday, while Bryson Moore from Virginia is set for Sunday. Beard, ranked as the 64th best prospect by MLB, boasts a formidable 3.14 ERA and a 7-1 record from last season, making him a crucial asset for FSU.
Jarrett praised Beard’s exceptional changeup and command, noting, “He has poise and understands the game, which is vital for finishing hitters.” With the season set to kick off, all eyes will be on these pitchers as they aim to lead FSU to victory.
As the countdown to Opening Day continues, fans are eager to see how Mendes’ new tactics and the weekend rotation will impact the team’s performance. Stay tuned for the latest updates as the Seminoles gear up for what promises to be an exciting season ahead.
