Long Beach, Calif. – In a thrilling matchup, the Pepperdine baseball team edged out Long Beach State with a final score of 6-5. This victory marked an important moment for the Waves, who improved their record to 4-14 after a tough start to the season.
The game took a dramatic turn in the ninth inning when Pepperdine scored three runs, reclaiming the lead after initially losing it in the sixth. Freshman catcher Esteban Sepulveda from Lancaster, California, homered in the second inning, marking the first home run of his college career. His early contribution helped put the Waves ahead 1-0.
Senior shortstop Justin Rubin from Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, delivered a game-winning single in the ninth inning, bringing home two critical runs. Freshman Adam Troy from Houston, Texas, sealed the game on the mound, pitching two scoreless innings and striking out two batters, ensuring the win.
Pepperdine started strong with Sepulveda’s solo home run. Senior outfielder Luke Pemberton added another run soon after, putting the Waves ahead 2-0. However, Long Beach State clawed back, scoring runs in the third and fourth innings to tie the game 2-2.
The Dirtbags surged ahead with three runs in the sixth, making the score 5-2. But the Waves didn’t give up. They managed to score again in the eighth inning, reducing the deficit to 5-3 after Sepulveda recorded his second RBI.
In the ninth, with the bases loaded, Rubin’s timely hit turned the game around. He brought in two runs, putting Pepperdine ahead 6-5. Troy then closed out the game, striking out the final batter to secure the victory.
Looking ahead, Pepperdine will take a break before facing the Nebraska Cornhuskers at home. This series offers a chance for the Waves to build on their recent success and improve their standing in the season.
This win not only lifted team spirits but also showcased the growing talent within the roster. With players like Sepulveda stepping up, the future looks promising for Pepperdine baseball. Fans are eager to see how the team can build on this momentum as they prepare for their next challenge.
For more updates, check out the official Pepperdine Athletics page here.
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