BREAKING: Florida State University (FSU) has officially announced that Wes Mendes will take the mound as the Opening Day starter against James Madison this Friday, February 16, 2023. This decision, confirmed by Semiole head coach Link Jarrett, highlights Mendes’ significant progress and readiness for the season ahead.
Mendes, a left-handed pitcher, is poised to kick off the season as FSU’s Friday night starter, having shown marked improvement over the offseason. Last year, Mendes finished with a 5.42 ERA and a 7-3 record, striking out 90 batters while walking 39. With a new cutter added to his pitching arsenal, Mendes is confident that he can generate weak contact and enhance his performance on the mound.
In a recent statement, Coach Jarrett emphasized Mendes’ potential, saying,
“All his stuff is there, and the stuff has improved. The metrics on every pitch will tell you that.”
He also stressed the importance of maintaining focus and consistency, especially as Mendes prepares for the high-pressure role of leading the pitching rotation.
Mendes is eager to set the tone for the team. “It’s awesome to have the trust of the coach to go out there on Friday night,” he said. “Last year, I felt like I was very up and down. This year, it’s about being my average self at all times, taking it pitch by pitch.”
Following Mendes in the rotation will be Trey Beard, a transfer from FAU, who will pitch on Saturday, and Bryson Moore, a transfer from Virginia, who will start on Sunday. Beard, ranked as the 64th best MLB prospect, is expected to make a significant impact after a standout season where he recorded a 3.14 ERA and a 7-1 record with 118 strikeouts in 15 starts.
Jarrett praised Beard’s pitching skills, particularly his changeup, calling it “spectacular.” He noted,
“One of the keys is having a plus secondary pitch that you can command when you need to finish hitters.”
Beard’s performance is anticipated to elevate FSU’s pitching staff, making for an exciting season ahead.
As the countdown to Opening Day continues, fans and players alike are gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling start to the 2023 NCAA Baseball season. Keep an eye on Mendes and the rest of the rotation as FSU looks to establish its dominance on the field.
Stay tuned for more updates as the season unfolds!
