USA Blue Defeat Puerto Rico in Rain-Soaked Affair
By GameChanger Media

Despite challenging conditions, Tyler Thorgerson delivered a standout performance on the mound, guiding USA Blue to a 6-4 win over Puerto Rico on Friday.

The right-hander struck out 10 over seven innings, limiting Puerto Rico to five hits and four runs while walking just two in steady rain.

Puerto Rico struck first in the top of the fourth inning when Guadalupe drove in a run with a single. But USA Blue quickly answered in the bottom half, plating three runs on an error, an RBI single by Matt McMahon, and a run-scoring double play off the bat of Erik Rozzi to take a 3-1 lead.

Puerto Rico tied it up in the fifth behind a two-run double from Rodriguez. But USA Blue regained control in the bottom of the inning, as B.J. Kittle raced around the bases for a two-run inside-the-park home run. Brian Remillard followed with an RBI double to stretch the lead to 6-3.

Valdez took the loss for Puerto Rico, allowing six runs—four earned—on eight hits over six innings. He struck out five and walked three.

Kittle led USA Blue with two RBIs and a run scored, finishing 1-for-4. Remillard remained perfect at the plate, going 2-for-2.

Rodriguez and Guadalupe paced Puerto Rico’s offense, combining for three hits and three RBIs.

With the rain behind them, USA Blue now sets its sights on Saturday’s matchup against Ireland.

Top USA Blue Performers

⚾ Tyler Thorgerson – Masterful on the mound with 10 strikeouts in seven innings, keeping Puerto Rico’s offense in check despite the rain.
⚾ B.J. Kittle – Sparked the offense with a thrilling two-run inside-the-park homer, plus two RBIs and a run scored.
⚾ Brian Remillard – Perfect at the plate, going 2-for-2 and driving in a crucial insurance run with a double.