Raiders Take Game One of Three Game Set Against Meridian, 5-2

MERIDIAN, Miss. — Northwest Florida State baseball picked up a key road win on Friday, defeating Meridian 5-2 in Mississippi. A combination of early offensive production and strong performances on the mound propelled the Raiders to victory as they extend their winning streak to seven games and move to 16-5 on the year.

The Raiders wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, striking first in the top of the opening inning. David Alvarez came up with a clutch two-run double, giving Northwest Florida an early advantage and setting the tone for the game. The Raiders continued to apply pressure in the third inning when Hutson Guinn launched a two-run home run to center field, extending the lead to 4-1.

On the mound, Thomas Conrad took the start for Northwest Florida and delivered a strong outing. The right-hander pitched six innings, allowing just two runs on six hits while striking out six batters. Although he issued five walks, Conrad worked through trouble effectively to keep the Eagles' offense in check.

Meridian managed to push across a run in the third to cut into the deficit, but the Raiders' pitching staff held firm. In the top of the fourth, Northwest Florida tacked on an insurance run to make it 5-2, giving them some breathing room.

Out of the bullpen, Cooper Powell was dominant in relief. The righty took over in the seventh inning and shut down the Meridian lineup, tossing three scoreless frames while allowing just two hits. Powell struck out five and walked three to secure the save, ensuring that the Raiders maintained control until the final out.

At the plate, Northwest Florida's lineup showed patience and discipline. Alvarez and Guinn led the offensive attack, each driving in two runs. Alvarez finished 2-for-5 on the day, providing key production in the middle of the order. The Raiders also demonstrated strong plate discipline, working seven walks as a team. Henry Allen, Augusto Mungarietta, and Guinn each drew two free passes to help keep the pressure on Meridian's pitching staff.

Defensively, the Raiders played a clean game, committing zero errors in the field. Mungarietta was a standout on defense, leading the team with 13 chances and anchoring the infield with steady play.

For Meridian, Busbea and Wright each collected two hits, while Martin and Busbea were responsible for driving in the Eagles' only runs. Meridian showed patience at the plate, drawing eight walks, with Williams, Ross, and Martin each reaching twice via free passes. However, the Eagles struggled to capitalize on their opportunities against the Raiders' pitching.

The Raiders and Eagles will be back in action on Saturday for games two and three of the weekend series. The doubleheader will begin at noon with game one, followed by game two at approximately 3:00 p.m. Both contests will be seven-inning games as the Raiders look to build on their momentum and secure the series victory.