Northwest Florida Cruises Past John Melvin University

NICEVILLE, Fla. — Northwest Florida rolled to a 17–5 victory over John Melvin University on Tuesday afternoon in Niceville.

John Melvin struck first in the opening inning, using a double to bring home two runs. The Mohawks added to the lead in the second, scoring twice on a walk and a lineout to go ahead 4–0.

The Raiders responded in a big way in the bottom of the second, erupting for six runs on five hits to seize a 7–4 advantage. The inning was highlighted by a three-run home run to left field from Sam Bradley on a full count.

Northwest Florida added to its lead in the third when Nathan Nance blasted a solo home run to center field. John Melvin plated one run on a solo homer in the top of the fourth, but the Raiders pulled away late.

In the bottom of the sixth, Northwest Florida put the game out of reach by scoring five runs on four hits. Kaden Linares singled in a run, Orlando Fernandez doubled home another, Joseph Cable drove in two with a single, and Tristan Bittle drew a bases-loaded walk.

Brady Martin got the start for the Raiders, allowing four runs (three earned) on one hit in one inning, striking out two and walking four. KJ Hart followed with three strong innings, giving up one run on two hits while striking out six. Damian Brown closed the door with three shutout innings in relief, allowing one hit and striking out four.

Northwest Florida finished with 13 hits on the day. Cable paced the offense with three hits, while Linares and Bradley each drove in three runs. Fernandez and Nance added multiple hits. The Raiders showed patience at the plate, drawing 14 walks, with Quigley, Nance, Tarchalski, King, and Bradley each earning two free passes. On the basepaths, Northwest Florida swiped 12 bases, led by multiple steals from Quigley, Santiago, and Fernandez.

The Raiders will take on JMU once more tomorrow at 2:00 p.m. before hitting the road this weekend for a three-game series against Pearl River.