Timely Hitting, Clutch Pitching and Excellent Defense Propels Tampa to South 1 Final on Sunday
TAMPA, Fla. - Needing a pair of victories on Saturday to stay alive at the NCAA South 1 Baseball Regional, the University of Tampa prevailed to move to Sunday's South 1 final against Rollins College. The Spartans opened the day with a 14-5 win over Spring Hil, and held on fo a 5-2 win over Rollins in the nightcap of the double-elimination regional.
Against Spring Hill, Tampa took control early on, scoring multiple runs in the fourth and fifth innings, establishing a significant lead. Despite a brief comeback effort by Spring Hill in the sixth inning, Tampa remained in control throughout the game, ultimately securing a decisive win.
Jordan Lala, Drew Ehrhard, and Anthony Nunez led the offensive charge, showcasing their hitting prowess. Nunez's standout performance included a powerful home run and three RBI, while Lala and Ehrhard each added multiple hits and RBI to their team's impressive tally. Overall, Tampa's batters combined for an impressive 19 hits, showcasing its offensive firepower.
Tampa's pitching staff effectively stifled Spring Hill's attempts to mount a comeback. Starting pitcher Cameron Sereda set the tone early in the game, delivering a solid four innings with no runs allowed. Michael D'Emo and Skylar Gonzalez also made significant contributions on the mound, effectively shutting down Spring Hill's offense and ensuring Tampa's victory. The pitching staff's combined effort limited Spring Hill to just five runs.
Tampa's offensive outburst began in the fourth inning when Anthony Nunez launched a home run, driving in two runs and setting the tone for the rest of the game. The momentum continued as Nico Saladino's timely single brought in another run, followed by Jose Cadenas' single that further extended Tampa's lead. A double play and a passed ball also contributed to Tampa's scoring spree, allowing them to amass a commanding 7-0 lead by the end of the fourth inning.
Spring Hill made a valiant effort to rally in the sixth inning, with Seth Williams smashing a three-run home run, bringing the score to 13-3. Bryce Anderson's walk added another run for Spring Hill, but Tampa's defense held firm, limiting their opponents to just two more runs for the remainder of the game.
Following a weather delay that forced the scheduled 5 p.m., game to a 7:30 p.m., start, the Spartans matched up with Rollins as the remaining teams in the South 1 Regional. The game showcased impressive pitching performances, solid defense, and strategic plays that ultimately led to a 5-2 victory for Tampa.
Tampa took an early lead in the first inning, capitalizing on opportunities and displaying their offensive prowess. Jordan Lala got things started for Tampa, reaching base and eventually scoring the first run of the game. Drew Ehrhard and J.D. Urso followed suit, contributing to Tampa's three-run lead in the opening inning. Their aggressive approach and ability to get on base set the tone for the rest of the game.
Despite falling behind early, the Rollins team showed resilience and fought back. In the second inning, Parker Smith's sacrifice fly allowed Mason Wilson to score, putting Rollins on the scoreboard. Their ability to manufacture a run through small-ball tactics showcased their determination and ability to capitalize on opportunities.
The game featured an impressive pitching duel headlined by Sunshine State Conference Pitcher of the Year in Tampa's Alex Canney. The Spartan ace allowed only two runs on seven hits over 6.1 innings. He struck out five batters and limited Rollins' scoring opportunities.
Both teams displayed exceptional defensive skills throughout the game. Tampa's solid defense, highlighted by flawless fielding and zero errors, prevented Rollins from mounting a significant comeback. In contrast, Rollins' defense was also strong, but they were unable to overcome the early deficit created by Tampa's offensive outburst.
Tampa's offensive success can be attributed to several key contributors. Jamarcus Lyons and Santiago Garavito provided timely hits, driving in crucial runs for their team. J.D. Urso's sacrifice fly and Anthony Nunez's walk with the bases loaded also played a vital role in extending Tampa's lead. Rollins' Adams Torres and Parker Smith drove in their team's only runs, displaying their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Canney would take the win for Tampa, improving to 9-0 on the season. Dalton Ross would pitch the final 2.2 innings, facing the minimum and striking out four Tars hitters in a no-hit outing to earn his team-leading fifth save of the season.
The same teams will meet on Sunday in a winner take all matchup, beginning at 1 p.m., at the UT Baseball Field. The winner will advance to play Barry University in next weekend's NCAA South Super Regional.