No. 13 Florida Dominates Jacksonville with 16-4 Run-Rule Victory
- Nicolle Hernandez
- Mar 19, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 28, 2025
The No. 13 Florida Gators (17-5) powered their way to a 16-4 victory over Jacksonville (11-9) on Tuesday night.
They used a dominant offensive outburst to end the game early via the run rule at Condron Family Ballpark.
Florida plated at least three runs in each of the final four innings to secure the win in just seven frames.
The win was a dominant performance that showcased both offensive depth and strong pitching.
The Gators’ offense was in full swing, led by freshman Brendan Lawson.
He continued his standout season with a 3-for-4 night at the plate, including a three-run homer and a two-run double.
Lawson finished with a career-high five RBI, helping Florida to their largest offensive output in a run-rule win this season.
Lawson's three-run blast in the third inning gave Florida an early 4-0 lead, with Luke Heyman and Colby Shelton scoring after reaching base on singles.
Justin Nadeau, who was facing his former team, also had a monster game.
The junior outfielder went 2-for-5 with a three-run homer and a double.
He posted a season-high four RBI and three runs scored.
His three-run shot in the fifth inning put the game out of reach at 10-2, furthering his impact against Jacksonville.
Landon Stripling added to the power display, launching a three-run homer in the sixth to cap off a four-run inning for Florida.
Colby Shelton also contributed with a 3-for-4 performance, which included two RBI and two runs scored.
Florida's offensive attack didn't stop there.
The Gators scored at least three runs in each of the final four innings.
After Nadeau's homer in the fifth, the Gators exploded for six more runs in the sixth inning.
Stripling's three-run blast was the highlight, while Nadeau and Shelton continued to drive in runs, combining for five of the six runs scored in the frame.
On the mound, Florida starting pitcher Jackson Barberi set the tone early.
He pitched three innings of one-run ball and struck out three while allowing just two hits.
Barberi, who was making his second career start, left the game with a 4-0 lead after plunking the leadoff batter in the fourth.
Right-hander Christian Rodriguez (1-0) entered in relief and earned his first-career victory with 1.2 innings of work.
He allowed one run on two hits while striking out one batter.
The freshman kept Jacksonville's offense in check during his time on the mound, helping the Gators extend their lead.
Niko Janssens finished off the game for Florida, pitching a scoreless seventh inning.
He struck out a pinch hitter to seal the run-rule victory.
The win was Florida's 14th of the season at home.
It improved their record at Condron Family Ballpark to a remarkable 14-1.
The Gators also extended their dominance over Jacksonville, having won 14 of the last 17 meetings between the two schools.
This victory also gave Florida the season sweep of the Dolphins, with the Gators now holding a 69-36 all-time record over JU, including 45-17 at home.
Barberi’s three-inning stint, a career-high in his young career, allowed Florida to establish control early.
Lawson’s big night tied his career-high in both hits and RBI.
Nadeau's home run was his first as a Gator, and he continued to be a major threat in his second meeting with Jacksonville this season.
In those two games, he’s hit 5-for-8.
With the win, Florida improved to 6-0 in run-rule victories this season.
This is a sign of their explosive offensive potential and strong pitching depth.
The Gators will look to keep the momentum rolling as they remain at home for their next matchup.
They will host Florida A&M on Wednesday night, with the first pitch set for 6:30 p.m. and the game being broadcast on SEC Network+.




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