Key moments from the middle game
Florida International University’s baseball squad fell to New Mexico State 6-5 in the middle contest of their Conference USA series, a game that swung early in favor of the Aggies.
New Mexico State erupted for five runs in the third inning, building a lead that would prove crucial as the Panthers fought back later.
FIU answered with a late surge, plating runs in the seventh and ninth frames, but the comeback fell just short of tying the contest.
Right-hander Julian Mlodzinski opened the game with his team‑leading 13th start, surrendering three earned runs over three innings, while reliever George Adams followed with 2.2 scoreless innings before Bryce Turner closed out 2.1 innings without allowing an earned run.
At the plate, the Panthers collected eight hits, highlighted by multi‑hit outings from Mario Trivella, who drove in two runs to reach the 50‑RBI milestone for the season, and Cooper Rasmussen, who reached base three times including an inside‑the‑park home run.
The series now shifts to a decisive final game on Saturday, May 16 at 4 p.m., where both teams will look to claim the championship spot.