TAMPA, Fla.- The Palm Beach Atlantic baseball team dropped game one of their series against the University of Tampa, ending in a 12–3 defeat at Tampa Baseball Field on Friday night. 

Tampa set a quick pace with a four-run first inning, capitalizing on a fielding error and hits that included a double and a sacrifice fly. The third inning widened the gap further, as a string of extra-base hits, resulted in a six-run surge and put the 'Fish in a challenging position.

The Sailfish found a spark in the sixth inning with Trey Miranda's leadoff walk. Carter Parent followed with another walk, setting up Finley Holmes to crack an RBI double down the left-field line. Aaron Vetter then stepped up with a key two-RBI single up the middle, cutting into Tampa's lead. However, the rally stalled, leaving two runners in scoring position.

In the later innings, PBA struggled to generate more offense against Tampa's bullpen, and the game concluded without further scoring changes. Missed opportunities early on highlighted the challenge of overcoming the initial deficit.

Nolan Smoot took the mound for PBA, pitching 2 innings and allowing 10 runs on 10 hits, including two doubles and two triples. He issued three walks and struck out one. Zachary Orloff relieved Smoot, delivering 3 innings with 4 strikeouts, allowing just one run on two hits, including a home run. Gavin Ingram also contributed 3 innings, surrendering one run on two hits, with two walks and two strikeouts.

The Sailfish return to the field for a doubleheader with the Spartans on Saturday afternoon. First pitch is set for 1 p.m.