FSU: 'Noles can't' finish, Tigers take series

By Michael McGuffee - May 13, 2007

After a promising four-run seventh inning, No. 16 Clemson blanked No. 2 Florida State in the last two innings to make their 11-6 triumph official. Clemson takes the series with the win, while the Seminoles suffer their first three-game series loss of the season. The 'Noles (43-9, 21-6 ACC) have have only themselves to blame after blowing a five-run lead in game two.

Andy D'Alessio was the difference for the Tigers (34-18, 17-10 ACC), tagging two home runs in the rubber match and accounting for five of Clemson 11 RBI. D'Alessio and the Tigers can now take credit for two of the Seminoles' four losses at home this season.

Sophomore D.J. Mitchell (4-0) picks up the win for the Tigers after pitching six innings and allowing five hits and four earned runs with five strikeouts.

Florida State pitching continues to struggle through the month of May after a great start to the season. The Tribe surrendered a combined 11 runs on 12 hits from the mound, with eight coming against freqent starters Ryan Strauss (8-2) and Michael Hyde (9-2). As a result FSU was once again forced to dig in the bullpen, using seven pitchers in the contest, an obvious concern for Mike Martin and the Seminoles heading into postseason play.

With a Virginia loss to NC State, however, the Seminoles do clinch the No. 1 seed in the upcoming ACC tournament.