The Virginia Tech baseball team scored four runs in the ninth inning on April 4 but ultimately lost to Miami, 8-6, at Alex Rodriguez Park at Mark Light Field.
The late rally by Virginia Tech highlighted their effort to overcome a six-run deficit against the Hurricanes. The game was significant as it showed the team’s resilience despite being behind for much of the contest.
Nick Locurto led Virginia Tech with three hits from the leadoff spot, including two run-scoring singles. His second hit extended the game during the ninth inning with two outs. Ethan Ball then hit a three-run home run estimated at 420 feet, further closing the gap before Miami’s Ryan Bilka struck out Sam Grube to end the game.
Earlier in the game, Pete Daniel and Sam Gates delivered back-to-back doubles in the second inning to give Virginia Tech an early lead. However, Miami responded with a five-run fourth inning and built a 7-1 advantage. Brett Renfrow started for Virginia Tech and pitched two scoreless innings before allowing several runs in later frames. Jake Ogden contributed for Miami with a double, two triples, and three RBIs.
Virginia Tech managed only one run on five hits against Miami starter Lazaro Collera through most of the game. Seven of Miami’s twelve hits went for extra bases.
The series will conclude on Sunday, April 5, with Griffin Stieg scheduled to start for Virginia Tech against AJ Ciscar for Miami.
