Pinson's Complete-Game Shutout Advances KSU to Semis

LYNCHBURG, Va. – A masterpiece on the bump from senior starting pitcher Smith Pinson propelled No. 3 Kennesaw State to an 8-0 shutout win over No. 6 Florida International to advance to the semifinals of the 2025 Conference USA Championship Friday afternoon.

Pinson threw a complete-game shutout, the first by an Owl since 2017 and first player to do so in the CUSA tournament since 2023, with six strikeouts allowing just six hits on 104 pitches. It was the first complete game of his career.

The Owls (31-26, 17-9 CUSA) were led offensively by freshman Wesley Alig who collected a three-hit day and crossed home twice. Nate Anderson and Cam Suto also posted multi-hit outings Friday. Jackson Chirello drove in two runs on a 1-for-2 day at the plate. A five-run first inning set the tone and Kennesaw State never looked back, going wire-to-wire in the elimination game.

Source: ksuowls.com
Link: Pinson’s Complete-Game Shutout Advances KSU to Semis