THE Philippines struck hard in the bottom of the first inning with six runs and routed Indonesia 13-1 as the East Asia Baseball Cup got going last Tuesday at the Clark International Sports Complex in Mabalacat, Pampanga.
Banking on a well-rounded offense and sound defense, the Filipino sluggers gifted new head coach Vince Sagisi Jr. with his first victory while establishing themselves as the team to beat in the tournament organized by the Philippine Amateur Baseball Association.
Designated hitter Mark John Beronilla and catcher Harper Sy led the way for the hosts, going four-for-four at bat and combining for three runs, four hits and four RBI (runs-batted in) while starting pitcher Romeo Jasmin Jr. worked five innings and gave up just four hits, one run and an error.
Sinisi’s charges were eyeing their second win in a row and a sweep of Group B against Singapore yesterday to advance to the super round.
In Group A, Hong Kong clobbered Malaysia 16-1 while Thailand trounced Cambodia 14-4 in the other Group B match.
The top four teams in each group will advance to the super round on Saturday, with the winners disputing the championship on Sunday while sealing slots in the Asian Cup scheduled in Japan next year.
