It was a day to remember at Atlantis University’s home field as the Atlanteans staged a thrilling comeback to defeat the UIC Eagle Rays, 5-4, in a dramatic walk-off finish on Friday. Down 4-3 in the bottom of the seventh inning, the crowd held its breath as Ozzy Gabarro stepped up to the plate. Gabarro delivered under pressure with the bases loaded, smashing a clutch single to bring in two runs and seal the victory.
| Final | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | R | H | E |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
United International College
|
0 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 7 | 3 |
|
Atlantis University
|
0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 5 | 10 | 2 |
Slow Start, Big Finish
Atlantis University didn't get off to a strong start. UIC came out strong, putting up a 4-0 lead by the fourth inning. The scoring started in the second when Erick Riera drove in a run with a single. The Eagle Rays added more in the third with an Angel Toro sacrifice bunt and a Julio Ramos groundout that plated two more runs. But Atlantis wasn't going down without a fight. The Phoenix got on the board in the bottom of the fourth and kept chipping away at the deficit. Finally, in the seventh, they completed the comeback with Gabarro's walk-off hit, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
Pitching and Key Performances
Chris Olazabal was a force on the mound for Atlantis University, earning the win in relief. The right-hander threw three and two-thirds innings of shutout baseball, allowing just one hit while striking out four. Starter Kevin Rodriguez battled through three and one-third innings, giving up four runs on six hits while striking out three. UIC's Phillip See Arnold got the start for the Eagle Rays, allowing three runs (one earned) over four innings on eight hits, striking out two.
Offensive Standouts
Atlantis University's bats came alive when it mattered most. The Atlanteans collected 10 hits, with Gianni Rodriguez, Gabarro, and Justin Suarez each tallying two. Gabarro and Suarez also led the team in RBIs, driving in two runs apiece. Jonathan Mustelier showcased his speed on the base paths, swiping two bags while Atlantis flashed the leather by turning a crucial double play in the game. Riera and Edgardo Alvarez had two hits for UIC, while Ramos, Bastardo, and Riera accounted for the team's four RBIs. The Eagle Rays also turned a double play on defense.
A Win to Build On
This win marks a critical moment for Atlantis University as they continue their season with momentum. The team showed grit, resilience, and the ability to execute under pressure—qualities that will serve them well as they push forward.
