The 2026 American Baseball Championship delivered a dramatic finish as No. 4 UAB erased a one-run hole in the ninth inning to claim a 9-6 victory over No. 3 Rice. The game, played under bright Florida skies, featured a seesaw battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final out.
Early Momentum for UAB
UAB struck first, plating runs in both the first and second innings to build an early lead. The offense was steady, but Rice answered with a rally in the eighth that turned the tide, forcing the game into a tense finish.
Rice’s comeback was sparked by back-to-back home runs that put them ahead 6-5. The momentum seemed to shift entirely to the Owls, who appeared poised to close out the contest, only to watch UAB’s resolve harden in the top of the ninth.
A Four-Run Finale
UAB’s ninth-inning rally was nothing short of spectacular. The team scored four unanswered runs, capitalizing on a series of timely hits and aggressive base running. The burst of offense not only erased the deficit but also flipped the scoreboard in their favor, sealing a 9-6 win.
With the victory secured, UAB now turns its attention to the next round, where they will meet either No. 5 Memphis or No. 7 Wichita State. Both potential opponents bring strong pitching staffs, promising another tightly contested matchup.
The win marks a pivotal moment for UAB’s season, showcasing the team’s resilience and depth. Coach JP Head praised the collective effort, highlighting the contributions of players such as Landon Beaver and Baylor Roberts, who were instrumental in the comeback.
Rice’s tournament run concluded with a 1-2 record, ending their campaign early. Despite the loss, the Owls demonstrated competitive spirit, especially during their eighth-inning surge that nearly clinched the game.