THE UST Golden Sox outplayed the DLSU Green Batters, 4-3, to remain in the Final Four hunt of the UAAP Season 87 baseball tournament on Palm Sunday, April 13, at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium.
After improving to a 4–5 record, UST finds itself in a three-way tie with Adamson and UP, all fighting for the last two Final Four slots.
The Golden Sox opened the match with two runs but the Green Batters quickly responded with three of their own, 3-2.
In the fifth inning, UST regained its rhythm as Sean De Leon sparked the rally with a deep hit to left field. First baseman Alwyn Piñero followed with a sharp single, setting the stage for rookie outfielder Cedrick Marquez to send De Leon home, 3-all.
Moments later, national team standout JR Vargas drove a single through the infield to plate Piñero, giving the Golden Sox their first lead of the game, 4–3.
From the sixth inning onward, UST’s defense took over as second-year pitcher Jesus Cabigao racked up six strikeouts.
In the bottom of the seventh inning, Taft-based squad’s captain Lord Aragorn de Vera advanced to third base after being hit by a Cabigao pitch.
However, UST third baseman Prince Geronimo fired a laser to Piñero at first base to gun down Samuel that deflated DLSU’s comeback hopes.
The España crew tallied 12 hits, with Marquez going 3-for-5 and delivering the game-tying RBI. Season 85 MVP Justine Rosales and Pinñero had two hits in four at-bats each.
UST is set to face UP for a spot in the semifinals after Holy Week on April 23 at the same venue. F
