Sharks Sink the Bucs, Punch Ticket to FCSAA State Tournament

Miami, FL - Miami Dade is moving on.

The Sharks took down Florida SouthWestern State, 8–3, to secure their spot in the FCSAA State Tournament in Tampa, using a late surge to separate after a tight game through the middle innings.

MDC got on the board first in the second on an RBI groundout from Leamsi Montañez, then stayed composed after FSW evened it in the fourth. The Sharks answered in the fifth, taking advantage of free bases and pressure on the defense to move back in front, 3–1.

The game shifted in the eighth. Willy Mendez led off the inning with a home run to right, pushing the lead to two and opening the door for a four-run frame. Miami Dade stayed aggressive, stringing together quality at-bats, with Miguel Colmenares delivering an RBI double as part of the rally to extend the lead to 7–2.

Miami Dade finished with 10 hits and consistent production throughout the lineup. Adrian Areizaga reached base three times and scored twice, William Polanco added two hits and two runs, and Samuel Castro contributed two hits and an RBI.

On the mound, the Sharks pieced it together effectively. Luke Helms earned the win, and Andy Mesa provided a key stretch out of the bullpen with three scoreless innings to hold momentum. The staff combined for 10 strikeouts and limited Florida SouthWestern to three runs.

Miami Dade controlled the late innings, created separation when it mattered, and closed it out to punch its ticket to the FCSAA State Tournament.