The Cambridge Rindge and Latin boys' baseball team snapped a 16‑year postseason drought on Tuesday, downing Lincoln‑Sudbury 8‑3 in the first round of the MIAA Tournament. Seeded eighth, the Falcons advanced to the round of 16 and will host Natick on Wednesday at 6:00 p.m., a matchup that could extend their surprising run deeper into the tournament.
A Resilient Performance
Coach Robert Merrill praised his squad's resilience, highlighting their ability to answer after the Warriors tied the game in the early innings. The team’s composure under pressure was evident throughout the contest.
Oliver Henke earned his sixth win of the season, delivering a gritty outing that saw him retire the side after a shaky start. He walked the first batter before escaping further trouble, showcasing his poise when the game hung in the balance.
Key Moments in the Win
The offense clicked early, with Josh Silber smacking a double over the left‑fielder's head. Nikko Santos laid down an excellent bunt that the Lincoln‑Sudbury catcher threw away, allowing Silber to score the go‑ahead run.
A second‑inning rally continued when Hugo Davis' bunt was also dropped, bringing home Santos and Henke. Joel Rojas‑Cruz ripped a double to the gap in right‑center to plate Davis, extending the lead.
The final run of the inning came on a sacrifice fly by Logan Sherwood, capping a four‑run burst that put the Falcons firmly in control.
With the victory, the team looks to carry its momentum into the showdown with Natick, a contest that could define the next phase of their postseason journey.