The University of Chicago’s baseball squad, ranked No. 25 in the nation, opened its NCAA Tournament run with an 8‑1 victory over Washington and Jefferson on Thursday night.
Right‑hander John Butka delivered a stellar outing, scattering just three hits over seven innings while allowing only one unearned run, showcasing the kind of poise that has become a hallmark of the Maroons’ rotation.
Record‑Breaking Homer
The offense clicked in the sixth frame when Erik Rindner launched a program‑record 30th career home run, a decisive blow that stretched the lead and energized the crowd.
Nathan Bae anchored the hitting attack with a pair of knocks and three RBIs, while Harrison Belden contributed three more RBIs via a timely double in the first inning, underscoring the depth of the lineup.
The win improved Chicago to 28‑13 and extended its winning streak to 17 games, propelling the team into the winners bracket where they are slated to meet Scranton on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. ET.