Heels Down Seminoles to Open Series

The first contest of a highly-anticipated 3-game series went to North Carolina on Friday night at Dick Howser Stadium. The Tar Heels defeated Florida State 3-1 behind an outstanding start from J.B. Bukauskas in front of more than 4,700 people.

With the loss, FSU fell to 18-9 on the season and 6-4 in ACC play. The series will resume on Saturday night at 6 p.m. EST.

The Good: Both starting pitchers were solid on Friday night. J.B. Bukauskas stole the show by allowing just three hits and a run in seven innings while striking out 10. Cole Sands was also solid for FSU, giving up two runs on seven hits in six innings. The defense behind the pitchers was also good as neither team committed an error.

The Bad: Despite only three hits, the Seminoles had some scoring opportunities. FSU drew four walks and had three batters hit, but left seven on base throughout the night.

The Ugly: Good starting pitching continues to stifle the Florida State bats. Friday’s contest marked the fourth time in FSU’s last six losses that it was held to one run or fewer.

Studs of the Game: The starting pitchers each get what’s due to them, but at the plate, Brian Miller and Ashton McGee each homered for North Carolina. Miller was one of only two players to have a multi-hit night on Friday.

Duds of the Game: In his highly-anticipated debut, FSU third baseman Drew Mendoza was 0-for-4 with a pair of strikeouts while hitting into a critical double play in the ninth inning. Nick Derr was also 0-for-4 for FSU.

Mike Ferguson is the editor of The Daily Nole. Follow Mike on Twitter @MikeWFerguson