Nic Partridge Powers Florida to Exhibition Win

The University of Florida defeated the Ontario Blue Jays 7-4 in a fall exhibition game at Condon Ballpark.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Baseball

Expressive editorial sports illustration of a baseball batter mid-swing, using orange, blue, navy, and white to depict a collegiate game action. — University of Florida freshman Nic Partridge hit a three-run home run and recorded four RBIs to lead the Gators to a 7-4 exhibition win over the Ontario Blue Jays on Tuesday. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe local university sports programs provide enough support for athletes managing chronic health conditions?

Florida freshman Nic Partridge hit a three-run home run and recorded four RBIs to lead his team past the Ontario Blue Jays. The Gators' pitching staff also dominated the matchup, combining for 18 strikeouts in the 7-4 exhibition victory.

Why it matters

This performance marks a significant milestone for Partridge, who has been working to regain his strength following stomach surgery in February 2026. His successful outing highlights his recovery and development as he continues to manage Crohn's disease.

Nic Partridge successfully increased his weight from 170 to 185 pounds while delivering a 3-for-4 performance. The Florida pitching staff held the Ontario Blue Jays to a final score of 7-4, aided by 18 total strikeouts.

The players

Nic Partridge

He is a University of Florida baseball player who was diagnosed with Crohn's disease as a freshman.

University of Florida

The institution sponsors a collegiate baseball program that utilizes Condon Ballpark for its home games.

Ontario Blue Jays

This baseball organization participated in a fall exhibition game against the University of Florida.

The details

Partridge played first base for the University of Florida after spending time training at the position earlier in the week. He has focused on maintaining his health through targeted nutritional adjustments to support his 15-pound weight gain.

February 2026: Nic Partridge underwent stomach surgery.
October 2026: Partridge recorded two hits and a home run against Troy.
October 28, 2026: Florida defeated the Ontario Blue Jays 7-4.
November 8, 2026: Florida is scheduled for a 12-inning game against Mercer.

Season Trajectory

This game serves as a critical evaluation point within the University of Florida baseball program's fall development cycle. Such exhibition matches are essential for assessing player recovery and determining roster depth before the official spring season begins.

Partridge successfully proved his ability to contribute as an everyday hitter by going 3-for-4 with four RBIs. His performance at first base provides the team with increased positional flexibility heading into their next scheduled exhibition matchup.

The takeaway

Partridge's successful return to form illustrates the importance of managed health and nutritional recovery for student-athletes. His progress serves as a positive indicator for his ability to maintain physical durability throughout the upcoming collegiate baseball season.