In a heart-stopping playoff clash, the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons narrowly defeated the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Golden Sox, 8-7, to claim the final semifinal berth in the UAAP Season 88 men's baseball tournament. The intense game unfolded on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the historic Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila, showcasing resilience and strategic prowess from both collegiate teams.
Late-Inning Drama Unfolds
The Golden Sox mounted a fierce comeback in the top of the seventh inning, scoring twice to knot the game at 6-6. However, the Fighting Maroons responded with crucial runs in the seventh and eighth innings to regain control. UP's skipper, Nano Asuncion, delivered a pivotal double to left-center in the seventh, driving in the go-ahead run. This scored Marvin Nalzaro, who had pinch-run for catcher Chinelle Manabat after Manabat drew a walk from relief pitcher Eljin Mendoza.
Key Offensive Contributions
UP's offense was fueled by consecutive hits from co-captains Razhley Santos and Daniel Badrina, creating scoring opportunities. LM Basañes capitalized by bringing home Santos with a short hit to third baseman Sean De Leon, who struggled to field it cleanly. On the defensive end, the game reached a climax in the ninth inning when UST loaded the bases after rookie Bokie Claro issued two walks. In a strategic move, UP head coach Iking Jimenez sent centerfielder Badrina to the mound to close out the game.
Badrina, who also excelled offensively with two hits and two RBIs, maintained his composure under pressure. He allowed only a single from Tim Caldo, which scored Ybbrahim Degollacion. UST's rally continued as Kevin Liwag stepped up, but his deep fly ball was expertly caught by Eman Javier, sealing UP's hard-fought victory and their place in the semifinals.
Coach Jimenez Reflects on Team's Journey
After the game, Coach Jimenez expressed immense pride in his team's determination, despite a challenging season. "The kids who played are really sincere, they really fought. So, this is the outcome. I'm proud of the team, even though I don't have that many key players, but I'm really proud. At least we made it to the semis; we went through the eye of a needle, but the needle still has a hole, we'll still make it in," he remarked, referencing UP's one-win first-round campaign.
He added, "I said, after the first round, one win, but until the season ends, we'll keep fighting. So, maybe they're motivated, the sacrifices they made while training and then there's also the exam. Their sincerity and somehow, the team has matured as well." This victory underscores the team's growth and perseverance throughout the season.
Looking Ahead to the Semifinals
The Fighting Maroons will aim to carry this momentum into their next challenge against the defending champion National University. The semifinal matchup is scheduled for Saturday, April 11, at 7 a.m., promising another thrilling contest in the UAAP baseball tournament.
Offensively, UP received significant contributions beyond Badrina, with Eman Javier and Nano Asuncion each adding two hits. For UST, Tim Caldo led the charge with two hits and two RBIs, supported by Cedrick Marquez, who also contributed two hits and two RBIs. This playoff game not only highlighted individual performances but also the competitive spirit of collegiate baseball in the Philippines.
