Millikan opened the CIF Southern Section Division 3 playoffs at home against South Torrance, setting the stage for a tightly contested battle.
Daunte Bell took the mound for the Rams and delivered a complete‑game effort, allowing just nine hits while striking out five batters.
A pivotal fifth inning
South’s Issac Orozco kept the Millikan hitters quiet for much of the early innings, limiting damage and keeping the game within reach.
The decisive moment arrived in the bottom of the fifth when Alan Machado drove in the go‑ahead run with an RBI single, giving Millikan a 2‑1 lead.
Shane Walley made a key defensive play, gunning down Chris Orlando at home plate to preserve the slim advantage.
Coach Ron Keester praised Machado’s grit and composure under pressure, highlighting the senior’s contribution to the team’s momentum.
Bell, after the game, expressed confidence in his performance and hinted that the outing could be his final appearance on the mound.
The Rams now turn their attention to the next round, where they will travel to face Beckman in Irvine, hoping to build on the victory.