Florida Gators Aim to Clinch Series Against Kennesaw State Owls

The Gators look to take the series with the Owls, with first pitch set for 5:30 p.m. ET

Feb. 21, 2026 at 10:05pm

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The Florida Gators baseball team will look to clinch their series against the Kennesaw State Owls on Saturday afternoon. The Gators secured a 9-3 victory over the Owls on Friday night, led by a dominant pitching performance from ace Liam Peterson who struck out 12 batters. The Gators have won six straight games since their opening night loss and will aim to continue their hot streak against the Owls.

Why it matters

This series is an important early-season test for the Gators as they look to build momentum and establish themselves as a top contender in college baseball. A series win over Kennesaw State would give the Gators confidence and help them maintain their position in the national rankings.

The details

In Friday's win, Florida's Kyle Jones led off with a hit for the fifth time in six games, while Ethan Surowiec hit his first two home runs of the season, including a multi-homer game. The Gators have been dominant early in games, outscoring opponents 27-4 in the first two innings so far this season.

  • The series opener was played on Friday, February 21, 2026.
  • Game 2 is scheduled for Saturday, February 22, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. ET.

The players

Liam Peterson

Florida's ace pitcher who struck out 12 batters in 5 1/3 shutout innings on Friday night.

Kyle Jones

Florida's leadoff hitter who has recorded a hit in five of the team's first six games this season.

Ethan Surowiec

Florida's slugger who hit his first two home runs of the season, including a multi-homer game, in Friday's victory.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This series is an important early-season test for the Gators as they look to build momentum and establish themselves as a top contender in college baseball. A series win over Kennesaw State would give the Gators confidence and help them maintain their position in the national rankings.