The Florida Gators baseball team experienced a remarkable turnaround during the 2025 season, transforming from a struggling squad to a postseason contender. A key factor in this resurgence was the strategic decision by head coach Kevin O'Sullivan to transition right-hander Jake Clemente from a weekend starter to a full-time closer. Clemente's impressive performance in his new role earned him an All-SEC Second Team selection.
However, this success came with a bittersweet twist, as Clemente has signed a contract with the Miami Marlins, forgoing his eligibility to return to the Gators. The Marlins, who selected Clemente in the seventh round of the 2025 MLB Draft, agreed to a $500,000 contract, significantly exceeding the slot value for the No. 198 pick.
Clemente's transformation was nothing short of phenomenal. Initially struggling as a starter, he found his groove in the bullpen... surrendering just five earned runs in 31 innings while striking out 45 batters and logging seven saves. His arsenal, which includes a fastball touching 99 mph, "a wipeout slider," "and an impressive changeup.".. made him a formidable force on the mound.
The Florida Gators baseball team had one of the best turnarounds in the country during the 2025 season. The Gators were victorious just once in their first 12 SEC games before a miraculous reversal, finishing with a conference record of 15-15, resulting in a trip to the NCAA postseason. One of the biggest reasons head coach Kevin O'Sullivan and Florida were able to turn their season around was the move from weekend starter to full-time closer of right-hander Jake Clemente.
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