MANILA – The University of the Philippines narrowly defeated the University of Santo Tomas, 8-7, in a tense playoff for the final semifinal berth of the UAAP Season 88 men’s baseball tournament on Wednesday at Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate.
UST surged with two runs in the top of the seventh to tie the game at 6-all, but UP quickly responded with crucial runs in the seventh and eighth innings to regain control.
UP captain Nano Asuncion delivered the go-ahead run in the seventh with a double to left-center, driving in Marvin Nalzaro, who had pinch-run for catcher Chinelle Manabat after reaching base on a walk from relief pitcher Eljin Mendoza.
Back-to-back hits by co-captains Razhley Santos and Daniel Badrina gave UP further scoring chances. LM Basañes then brought Santos home with a softly hit ball to third baseman Sean De Leon, who mishandled the play.
In the ninth, UST threatened with the bases loaded after two walks from rookie Bokie Claro. Fighting Maroons coach Iking Jimenez turned to centerfielder Badrina to pitch. Badrina, who also contributed two hits and two RBIs at the plate, held his ground, allowing only a single from Tim Caldo, who drove in Ybbrahim Degollacion.
A final UST rally was halted when Kevin Liwag’s deep fly ball was snared by Eman Javier, securing UP’s victory.
Coach Jimenez praised his team’s effort, reflecting on their first-round struggles. “The kids played sincerely and fought hard. Even without all our key players, I’m proud. Making it to the semis after a one-win first round shows their perseverance,” he said.
The Fighting Maroons will carry their momentum into a semifinal clash against defending champion National University on April 11 at 7 a.m.
UP’s Badrina, Asuncion, and Eman Javier each had two hits, while UST’s Tim Caldo and Cedrick Marquez recorded two hits and two RBIs apiece.
ia/xf
