PONCE, Puerto Rico — The University of Houston baseball team continued its strong start to the season Sunday, defeating Manhattan College 4-2 in a tightly contested game at Estadio Paquito Montaner. The victory keeps the Cougars undefeated at 3-0, marking their best start since 2016, and builds momentum during their participation in the Puerto Rico Challenge. A late rally in the eighth inning proved to be the difference, showcasing the team’s resilience and clutch hitting.
The game was a pitcher’s duel for much of the contest, with both teams struggling to break through offensively. Houston’s pitching staff, however, continued to impress, allowing just five runs through the first three games of the season – the fewest surrendered in an opening series since a similar performance against Villanova in 2016. Junior Richie Roman started on the mound for the Cougars, delivering a solid five innings, allowing just one run on four hits while striking out five batters. He was relieved by senior Ryne Rodriguez, who pitched a scoreless inning, and ultimately credited with the win was junior Alex Solis, who allowed one run on three hits over three innings.
Houston initially fell behind, with Manhattan scoring a single run in the top of the first inning. However, the Cougars quickly responded in the third. Senior Carter Sintek reached base with a single and advanced to second on a balk, setting the stage for sophomore McClane Helton, who drove him in with an automatic double. A subsequent single by redshirt sophomore Xavier Perez put runners on the corners, and a wild pitch allowed Helton to score, giving Houston a 2-1 lead.
The score remained 2-1 until the seventh inning when Manhattan managed to tie the game. A leadoff double by Colin Baseshore proved crucial, eventually leading to an RBI single that leveled the score at 2-2. The game remained tied heading into the eighth, setting the stage for Houston’s decisive rally.
The Cougars began the eighth inning with a walk issued to junior Tre Broussard. Pinch-runner Peyton Dickens then advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt. Showing aggressive baserunning, Dickens stole third base and then scored on a single from sophomore Jackson LaLima. LaLima wasn’t done yet, swiping second base himself before coming around to score on a go-ahead, pinch-hit triple from senior Cade Climie, extending his streak of hitting a triple in both of his seasons with Houston.
Climie’s timely hit sealed the victory for Houston, showcasing the team’s depth and ability to contribute in key moments. The Cougars utilized 18 players in the game, demonstrating a commitment to utilizing the entire roster.
Looking Ahead: Cougars Face Washington
Houston will conclude its participation in the Puerto Rico Challenge on Monday with a noon CT matchup against the University of Washington. Washington enters the game with a 0-2 record, having suffered losses to both #21 Wake Forest – whom Houston defeated 8-2 on Friday – and #17 NC State. Washington is scheduled to play tonight at 5:30 p.m. CT before facing the Cougars.
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The Cougars will look to maintain their undefeated record and continue their strong start to the season when they face Washington on Monday. The team’s early success, fueled by strong pitching and timely hitting, has set a positive tone for the remainder of the 2026 campaign.
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