De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Batters began their quest for a third consecutive UAAP baseball championship with an impressive 9-3 victory over archrivals Ateneo de Manila University on Sunday.

Facing the challenge of defending their title without national team stalwarts Iggy Escano and Julius Diaz, the Green Batters showcased their resilience and depth, relying on a strong defensive effort to secure the win in their season opener.

Joshua Pineda, the UAAP Season 85 Finals MVP, delivered a standout performance on the mound for DLSU, holding Ateneo to just two runs on three hits while striking out eight batters. Pineda’s stellar pitching set the tone for the Green Batters’ dominant display, with Lord Aragorn De Vera providing solid support in the closing innings.

Head coach Joseph Orillana emphasized the importance of starting the season with a victory and maintaining focus throughout the game. Despite facing a resilient Ateneo lineup, the Green Batters remained composed and determined to secure the win.

Trailing 1-2 at the bottom of the fourth inning, DLSU seized control of the game with a decisive three-run surge, highlighted by key contributions from Ezy Bautista, JM Segui, and Joseph Alcontin. The Green Batters capitalized on Ateneo’s pitching changes, extending their lead to 4-2 and never looking back.

DLSU’s offensive prowess was on full display as they continued to pile on runs, eventually building a commanding five-run lead by the sixth inning. Segui led the charge with two hits in four at-bats, contributing to the Green Batters’ dominant performance at the plate.

Despite a promising start from Ateneo catcher Luis Casanova, who went two-for-two in his first two at-bats, the Blue Eagles struggled to contain DLSU’s relentless offense. Ateneo’s bullpen faced challenges as they tried to contain the Green Batters’ scoring onslaught, ultimately falling short in their bid to halt the game.