In a thrilling comeback, the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons rallied from an early deficit to snatch a 13-9 victory against Adamson University in the UAAP Season 86 Baseball tournament. The action-packed match unfolded on Thursday at the UP Baseball Field in Diliman, Quezon City, marking UP’s first win of the season.

Despite a challenging start that saw UP trailing 0-6 as Adamson University launched a fierce offensive in the opening inning, the Fighting Maroons showcased resilience and determination to turn the tide in their favor.

UP’s hitting prowess came to the forefront in the fourth inning, laying the groundwork for a dramatic turnaround. The seventh inning proved pivotal as UP capitalized on opportunities with the bases loaded. A well-timed hit-by-pitch and a series of passed balls paved the way for UP to seize the lead, completing a remarkable 10-8 comeback.

The Fighting Maroons displayed exemplary defense in the subsequent innings, limiting Adamson’s offensive efforts and maintaining their hard-earned lead. Pitcher Daniel Badrina found his rhythm after a challenging start, showcasing remarkable composure and efficiency on the mound.

Captain Ian Mercado and senior catcher Mark Liwanagan played pivotal roles in UP’s offensive surge, contributing crucial hits that fueled the team’s remarkable comeback. Kean Matanguihan led Adamson’s offense with three hits, but UP capitalized on pitching changes to maintain control of the game.

The Fighting Maroons’ second-year pitcher Dan Rommel Bacalla played a crucial role in securing the victory, stepping up to the challenge after a pitching change and effectively shutting down Adamson’s offensive threats.

With the win, UP notched its first victory of the season, leveling the playing field at 1-1. The Fighting Maroons demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and unwavering determination, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead in the UAAP baseball tournament.