Tide Rebound to Avoid Gator Sweep

In a historic fashion, the Tide donned pinstripe uniform tops for the first time in the final game of their series, introducing a new game plan aimed at sealing the series with a victory.

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Pitcher Kayla Beaver reclaimed her role from the series opener, delivering a performance with multiple strikeouts against the formidable Gators offense. 

Jenna Johnson sparked the Tide's offense with a leadoff base hit in the first inning, marking a significant improvement from the series start, where the Tide managed only one hit against Keagan Rothrock. Abby Duchscherer followed up with a strategic base hit, placing herself and Johnson on first and second base. The Tide then took the lead for the first time in the series, thanks to a hit by Marlie Giles that drove Johnson home, setting a 1-0 score as they headed into the second inning. 

Beaver continued to dominate, securing her second strikeout and retiring six batters in Florida’s lineup. The defense, with Downing's recovery from the previous day's performance, showed marked improvement, handling routine ground balls with precision. 

Giles kept the momentum going with a two-base hit in the third inning, her third double of the season. The Tide executed their first double play of the series, closing out the third inning and maintaining their lead. 

The fourth inning saw Downing hit her second home run of the year, the first for Alabama in the series, and her fourth against the Gators during her career. Late in the game, utility player Kendal Clark stole home, adding another run to extend the lead to 3-0. 

Beaver closed the seventh inning and the game for the Tide, retiring several Gator batters and securing a shutout victory. 

The last series sweep against Alabama was in late April of 2013 at LSU, with the most recent home sweep occurring in late March 2004, also against LSU. The Tide has never been swept by Florida in a series, home or away, and continued that streak with tonight's win.