NU begins baseball title defense against Adamson

c/o UAAP

Games on tap at Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium, starting at 7am

ADU vs NU
UP vs DLSU
UST vs Ateneo

NATIONAL University kicks off its title defense and bid for back-to-back crowns in the UAAP Baseball Tournament as the season begins today (Wednesday) at the historic Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

The Bulldogs face Adamson University Soaring Falcons in the opening game at 7 a.m.

NU ended a nine-year title drought last season by clinching its fourth championship at the expense of De La Salle University.

Now, second-year head coach Romar Landicho emphasizes the importance of maintaining the mindset that brought them success.

"Siguro, continue lang namin 'yung mindset from last year na every game is important. Kailangan 'yung focus kasi we know na we have a target on our backs. Kailangan maging prepared kami sa lahat ng pwedeng mangyari," said Landicho, who is also part of the coaching staff for the Philippine Men's National Baseball Team.

"Naniniwala naman ako na ready naman sila this season."

Ace pitcher Amiel De Guzman remains a key figure for the defending champions, while seniors Gio Gorpido and Herald Tenorio are expected to provide leadership on both offense and defense.

"The seniors will be a great help. Pwede na kaming dumepende sa kanila in terms of decision-making. Yung maturity nila na nakuha from last season magiging key," Landicho added.

In the second game of the day, the Green Batters take on tournament hosts, the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons.

Meanwhile, the University of Santo Tomas Golden Sox and the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles will cap off opening day with an anticipated tightly contested matchup.