Astudillo Sets the Tone as Atlanteans Edge Millennia Atlantic in 9–8 Battle
Atlantis University leaned on a relentless offensive effort to outlast Millennia Atlantic University, 9–8, in a back-and-forth contest on Tuesday.
Astudillo proved nearly untouchable at the plate, going a perfect 3-for-3 with a double and two singles while driving key momentum throughout the game. His early production sparked an explosive start for the Atlanteans, who wasted no time applying pressure.
Atlantis broke through in the top of the first inning. Astudillo's RBI double opened the scoring, followed by a two-run single from Guerrero and another RBI knock by Chung to cap a four-run frame. Millennia Atlantic responded immediately, matching the intensity with a three-run bottom half to even the score.
The Atlanteans regained control in the second. Astudillo delivered again with an RBI single, and Knowles Jr. followed with another run-scoring hit to extend the lead. Atlantis continued to build separation in the third inning as Valbuena drove in a run with a single, and Astudillo added a sacrifice fly to push the advantage further.
Millennia Atlantic stayed within striking distance, highlighted by a solo home run from Hernandez in the fifth that trimmed the deficit and kept the pressure on. On the mound, Lopez secured the win for Atlantis University, working 5.2 innings while allowing four runs on five hits, striking out five. Sobrino closed the door to earn the save. Velasquez was charged with the loss after surrendering five runs in relief. Offensively, Atlantis University tallied 11 hits, with Valbuena and Chung joining Astudillo as multi-hit contributors. The Atlanteans also created opportunities on the base paths, swiping four bases to keep the defense unsettled. Millennia Atlantic saw strong performances from Contreras and Hernandez, who each recorded two hits, while Contreras led the team with two RBIs. Atlantis University executed when it mattered most, using timely hitting and aggressive baserunning to secure the narrow victory.
