SANFORD—The bats were alive in the penultimate game of the season. A home run from Anthony Ruocco propelled the Rats to a stellar 6-3 against the suns as they are set to take the series against Deland tonight. 

THE GAME

With a new face on the mound, the rats were focusing on getting their arms ready for the postseason. Jeremiah Stewart was called up to make his debut for the Rats against a subs team that gave the Rats their third loss of the season. 

With 3IP and 2R with 3 Ks, it was a very nice start to the season for Stewart against the hot Suns. He showed very good velocity and was able to stay strong in at-bats that were strung out due to foul balls. 

On the offensive side, we saw a lot of great power, with some deep fly-outs that were scrapping the outfield wall. Ultimately, it was Anthony Ruocco to put one over and give the Rats the 3-0 lead. Ruocco had 4 RBI total and accounted for almost 90% of the runs scored. 

Braden Calise also scored two hits and helped move the Rats along with a stolen base. He started the game in third and made a few plays. However, before he was able to completely settle in, he had to move to Shortstop following a Spicher exiting the game. 

THE STORY

Daniel Spicher was hit by a pitch that grazed his face and struck his helmet's ear flap, and although he was able to walk to first under his own power, he was taken in for further evaluation. It was this same Deland Suns team that he faced in the June 8th game when he was injured. 

The River Rats are set and ready for the postseason. As the final regular season game picks up tonight in Deland, the Rats are looking to end on a high note before having a few nights off. They play their first playoff game at home on Tuesday. 
 

Christian Bussiere, Daytona State

Photo By Taryn Friend, UF