The Riverland Community College baseball team continued its strong play on April 13, defeating Minnesota West 9-6 behind timely hitting and patient at-bats.

Riverland jumped out early with two runs in the first inning and added three more in the third to take control. After Minnesota West closed the gap, the Blue Devils responded with a four-run fifth inning that proved to be the difference.

Despite collecting just six hits, Riverland made the most of its opportunities by drawing 11 walks and capitalizing with runners on base.

Sophomore CF Roland Figueroa (Ponce, PR) provided the biggest swing of the day with a three-run home run, finishing with three RBIs. Sophomore 3B Raul Martinez (Santa Isabel, PR) added two hits and two RBIs, while sophomore 2B Peyton Ransom (Austin, MN) contributed two hits, scored twice, and drove in a run.

Freshman 1B Carson Gehrke (Oregon, WI) reached base four times via walks, helping set the table for the offense throughout the game.

On the mound, Sophomore RHP Khalil Fernandez (Arecibo, PR) earned the win, tossing six innings while allowing six runs on seven hits. Sophomore RHP Peyton Ransom (Austin, MN) closed the door in the seventh inning, striking out two to record the save.

Minnesota West made a late push with three runs in the seventh, but Riverland held on to secure the victory.