The University of Hawai‘i baseball team capped off a thrilling weekend with a dramatic 2-1 walk-off win over UC Davis in 13 innings on Monday night at Les Murakami Stadium, completing a series sweep and extending their win streak to five games.
Already having secured a second straight series victory, the Rainbow Warriors improved to 17-5 overall and 6-3 in Big West play.
The night began with unfortunate news, as starting third baseman Elijah Ickes was ruled out indefinitely due to an injury to his non-throwing hand. But Hawai‘i didn’t miss a beat, turning to its depth to carry the load.
Center fielder Matt Miura continued his red-hot stretch, going 2-for-2 to extend his streak to 8-for-8 for the series, in addition to drawing five walks across the three-game set. Meanwhile, shortstop Jordan Donahue had a stellar performance, finishing 4-for-5.
Down 1-0 entering the bottom of the seventh, Hawai‘i got a lift off the bench when Aiden Kuni delivered a pinch-hit RBI single to score Donahue and tie the game.
After five scoreless extra innings, the ‘Bows sealed the win in bizarre fashion in the bottom of the 13th. With the bases loaded and Jared Quandt attempting to steal home on an 0-2 count to David Vergel de Dios, UC Davis reliever Carter Delaney was called for a balk during his delivery — allowing Quandt to score the game-winning run.
The UH pitching staff was stellar all night, combining for 11 strikeouts. Starter Isaiah Magdaleno went seven strong innings, allowing just two hits with three strikeouts. Cory Ronan added two scoreless innings of relief with four strikeouts.
The Rainbow Warriors return to action Tuesday night for a nonconference matchup against UH Hilo. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 p.m.
The game will not be televised but will air on ESPN Honolulu radio.