A BALLPARK FIGURE

On April 2, 2005, FSU paid tribute to their longtime coach by dedicating Mike Martin Field at Dick Howser Stadium. At the time, Martin ranked seventh in all-time wins and had led the Noles to 25 consecutive NCAA postseason tournaments, including 12 trips to the College World Series. “From a professional standpoint, there’s never been greater news,” Martin said of the honor. “You can talk about winning a national championship, you can talk about a lot of things … but when you love a place like I do and to know this is going to happen, it’s very humbling … and it’s exhilarating, no doubt about it.” The Seminoles added to Martin’s win total by beating Clemson 3-1 on the newly named field.