Brett Shweky // Staff Writer
The Panthers are looking to junior infielder Eddie Silva to help the team kickoff the season on the right foot, with a game approaching on Feb. 17 at 7 p.m.
Silva maintained a strong sophomore campaign and was able to come up big for the Panthers when he went 8 for 13 while compiling three RBIs in a three-game series against Marshall in 2016.
The sports management major finished the season with a .293 batting average, 65 hits, 29 RBIs and a team-leading 18 doubles.
Silva said his personal goals for the beginning of the season is to break his record.
“Of course I would like to hit the ball over .300,” he said. “I’d like to hit the ball a little farther this season compared to last, and also just help the team win as many games a possible.”
The former Archbishop McCarthy Maverick played in two state championships his sophomore and junior year in high school. His team beat both Monsignor Edward Pace High School, 4-3, in 2012 and A. Crawford Mosley High School, 5-2, in 2013.
During his senior year, the Pembroke Pines native was batting .506, hit five home runs, and tallied up 31 RBIs. Silva was able to claim the Hitter of the Year award and also was named the winner of the Gold Glove in 2014.
Silva said although he was heavily lured by Arizona State University and Virginia Tech, he chose to play ball for FIU instead.
“Florida International was the best option,” said Silva. “The University is close to home, and to have my family and friends be able to come to all of my games is always great.”
Silva said his goal for the team’s first game against Jacksonville State University is to relax.
“I’m going to let the game play itself,” he said. “I’m going to let the game come to me.”
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