KANSAS CITY, Mo. - (RV) Ottawa University used a decisive fifth inning and dominant relief pitching to secure a 5-2 victory over Avila University on Saturday afternoon.
Avila struck first, plating single runs in the second and fourth innings to take a 2-0 lead. Ottawa responded in a big way in the fifth, turning the game completely around.
Jesus Rodriguez sparked the rally with an RBI triple to get the Braves on the board. Moments later, Rodriguez showcased heads-up base running by stealing home to tie the game. With momentum fully shifted,
Julius Ryan delivered the biggest swing of the inning, driving in two runs with a single to give Ottawa a 4-2 lead.
Ryan wasn't done. In the seventh inning, he added an insurance run with a solo home run to left field, capping a dominant offensive performance.
On the mound, the Braves got a strong start from
Kiene Prendez, who allowed two runs over four innings.
Caden Gray took over and was lights out, tossing five shutout innings while allowing no hits and striking out three to earn the win and shut the door on Avila.
Stats Recap (Ottawa)
- Julius Ryan: 4-for-4, HR, 2B, 3 RBI, 2 SB
- Jesus Rodriguez: 1-for-4, 3B, RBI, run scored, SB (including steal of home)
- Jose Lopez: 1-for-2, 2B, walk
- Team Offense: 5 runs on 7 hits, 5 walks
- Kiene Prendez: 4.0 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 4 K
- Caden Gray (W): 5.0 IP, 0 H, 0 ER, 3 K
- Braves Pitching: Combined 7 strikeouts, 0 runs allowed over final 5 innings
Who is Next
Ottawa (38-12) will now compete in the KCAC Tournament, April 29 through May 2 in Salina, Kan.
