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Rams Earn First Conference Win of the Season in 8–7 Victory Over San Bernardino Valley

Rams Earn First Conference Win of the Season in 8–7 Victory Over San Bernardino Valley
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February 24, 2026
The Victor Valley College Baseball team earned its first conference win of the 2026 season, defeating San Bernardino Valley in a thrilling 8–7 battle at home. The Rams combined clutch hitting, steady pitching, and late‑game resilience to secure a key early‑season conference victory.

Game Recap

Victor Valley's offense came alive early and stayed consistent throughout the afternoon, scoring in six different innings to keep momentum on their side. The Rams plated runs in the 3rd (1), 4th (2), 5th (1), 7th (1), 8th (2), and 9th (1) innings, steadily building pressure on the Wolverines.
After taking the lead in the middle innings, the Rams fought off a late push from San Bernardino Valley. Strong defensive execution and timely pitching sealed the win in front of the home crowd.
Victor Valley finished the game with 14 hits—one of their most productive offensive outings of the year.

Offensive Leaders

The Rams' lineup delivered from top to bottom, with several players turning in standout performances:
  • Brody Sappington powered the offense with a 4‑hit day, including a double and 2 RBI, setting the tone in the heart of the order.
  • Daniel Fernandez came up big with 3 hits, an RBI, and rock‑solid work behind the plate.
  • Christopher Manley added 2 hits, including a double, and drove in an important run in the late innings.
  • Geoffrey Rodrigues ignited the offense at the top of the lineup, scoring twice, driving in a run, and stealing a base.
  • Isaac Jimenez produced a key hit and an RBI while also adding a sacrifice to move runners into scoring position.
  • Aril Jackson drove in a run while providing dependable defense in right field.
  • James Salazar scored two runs and added a hit while patrolling center field with confidence.
With offensive contributions throughout the lineup, the Rams maintained steady pressure from the first pitch to the final out.

Pitching Breakdown

Victor Valley relied on multiple arms to navigate the conference showdown:
  • Mark Hyde delivered a strong start, pitching 6.0 innings, allowing just 1 run, and keeping the game firmly within reach.
  • Ricardo Gonzales worked 1.1 innings and allowed only one run, helping bridge the middle innings.
  • Max Bontrager, Cristobal Espino, and Kyle Morales combined to record the final outs and fend off the late rally.
Though the Wolverines chipped away late, the Rams' staff showed composure in key moments, securing the final outs needed to lock down the win.

Team Highlights

Final Score: Victor Valley 8, San Bernardino Valley 7
Hits: 14
Errors: 1
Extra‑Base Hits: 2 doubles (Sappington, Manley)
Stolen Bases: 2 (Rodrigues, Dixon)
Innings Scored: 3rd, 4th, 5th, 7th, 8th, 9th
The Rams' ability to produce runs across multiple innings proved crucial in securing their first conference win of the season.

Looking Ahead

With their first conference victory now secured, the Rams will look to build on this momentum as Inland Empire Athletic Conference play continues. The balanced offensive attack and resilient pitching performance provide optimism for the weeks ahead.
Come out and support your Rams as they continue their push through conference play!

Stay connected with the Rams through social media. Follow Victor Valley College Athletics on Twitter @vvc_Rams. Check-in with the Rams on Facebook/VVCathletics and on Instagram @vvcathletics.

For tickets to our VVC Home Athletic events, visit our Ticketing Page here. 

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