Rio Hondo edged in non-conference series opener 5-3 at Desert
| Final | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | R | H | E |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 9 | 0 |
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0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 0 | X | 5 | 11 | 1 |
By Sergio Ramos
College of the Desert used a late offensive push to pull away from Rio Hondo College and secure a 5–3 victory in a tightly contested game.
The Roadrunners struck early and showed steady offensive production throughout, collecting nine hits. Andrew Ruvalcaba led the way with a 2-for-5 performance and a run scored, while Anthony Baez added two hits and an RBI. Nicholas Gonzales and Nathan Sena each drove in a run, helping Rio Hondo build pressure across multiple innings.
Starting pitcher Matthew Sandoval delivered a solid outing, allowing just two runs on eight hits over five innings to keep Rio Hondo in control early. However, the momentum shifted in the middle innings.
Desert capitalized on key opportunities against the bullpen, breaking through with three runs over the sixth and seventh innings. Noah Arreola delivered the decisive blow with a home run and finished with two RBIs, while Brandon Leon continued his strong day at the plate with three hits and two runs scored. Malakai Lopez and Kaden Prosofsky also contributed RBIs to fuel the comeback.
Reliever Christian Ortega was tagged with the loss after surrendering three runs in two innings, as Desert took advantage of timely hitting to flip the game.
On the mound, Matthew Wallin earned the win for Desert, working seven innings while allowing three runs—only one earned—on eight hits. Victor Estrada closed out the game with two scoreless innings to earn the save.
Rio Hondo threatened late but couldn't capitalize, stranding 11 runners on base. Despite matching Desert with consistent contact, the Roadrunners were unable to deliver in key moments.
With clutch hitting and strong relief pitching, Desert completed the comeback and held on for the 5–3 win.