Facing his former team, Kyle Jones stepped up to the plate with the bases loaded and two outs. The Florida Gators were already cruising with a 7-2 lead when Jones launched a 363-foot grand slam, sealing a 12-2 victory over Stetson. This commanding win was a testament to the team's all-around performance.
Head coach Kevin O'Sullivan praised the team, noting the challenge of playing on the road against a hungry opponent. "This was a complete game all the way around," he said. The Gators have struggled in this venue before, but not on this night.
Jones has been a revelation since returning from a shoulder injury that sidelined him for most of 2025. His recent performance against UAB, where he went 7-for-13 with five doubles, highlighted his importance to the team. Returning to Melching Field, where he once shined as ASUN Freshman of the Year for Stetson, Jones showed why he's crucial to Florida's success.
His impact was immediate, leading off the game with an opposite-field single, followed by two stolen bases, and scoring on a wild pitch. O'Sullivan emphasized Jones' role as a tone-setter, "He kind of set the tone, and that's what you're looking for in a leadoff guy."
Florida overcame an early 2-1 deficit, thanks in part to freshman Jacob Kendall, who notched his first career hit and a three-run homer. Jones' grand slam further widened the gap, and Brendan Lawson's second home run of the season invoked the mercy rule.
The pitching staff was equally impressive. Billy Barlow started strong, giving up just two runs over four innings, while Caden McDonald closed it out with three shutout innings, striking out four. The Gators' pitchers have been stingy, allowing just one walk over the last 23 innings.
O'Sullivan is optimistic about the team's camaraderie and depth, highlighting the flexibility in their lineup. Luke McNeillie is set to start against Stetson on Wednesday, with plans to give other pitchers some work before the weekend series against Kennesaw State.
Catch the Gators in action against the Hatters at 6 p.m. ET on SEC Network +.