In a nail-biting showdown in Blacksburg, Rutgers baseball fell to Virginia Tech 9-8 in extra innings, despite holding leads in both the ninth and tenth innings. This game was a rollercoaster of emotions, showcasing the highs and lows of college baseball.
The Scarlet Knights jumped out to an early lead in the first inning. Peyton Bonds crossed the plate on a double play, followed by Trey Wells scoring on a dropped popup. But the Hokies were quick to respond, leveling the score at 2-2 with a two-run single by the end of the first.
Rutgers regained momentum in the third inning. Charlie Meglio and Trey Wells smashed back-to-back doubles, pushing the Scarlet Knights ahead 3-2.
Yomar Carreras added to the lead with a sac fly, making it 4-2. Virginia Tech chipped away with a solo homer in the fifth, but Ryan Jaros answered back with a solo shot of his own in the sixth, extending Rutgers' lead to 5-3.
The ninth inning brought drama as Virginia Tech rallied. A double and single set the stage for a bases-loaded walk that tied the game at 5-5, sending it into extra innings.
In the tenth, Rutgers capitalized on a pair of bases-loaded walks and a wild pitch to score three runs, taking an 8-5 lead. However, the Hokies weren't done. They launched three home runs in the bottom of the inning, including a two-run blast to seal the victory at 9-8.
The series finale promises to be another thrilling encounter, with the rubber match set for noon on Sunday. Fans can follow the action on X (@RutgersBaseball) for live updates and check live stats at go.rutgers.edu/LiveStats.