Roman Martin’s Grand Slam Propels Bruins to NCAA Regional Final
In a powerful offensive display, UCLA baseball surged past Arizona State 11-5 on Saturday night at Jackie Robinson Stadium, led by a second-inning grand slam from shortstop Roman Martin. With the win, the Bruins (43-16) advanced to the final of the Los Angeles Regional in the NCAA tournament.
Roman Martin’s Grand Slam Changes the Game Early
After UCLA jumped to a 2-0 lead in the first inning with runs from AJ Salgado and Payton Brennan, Roman Martin delivered the game’s defining moment. In the second inning, Martin launched a grand slam deep into left field, clearing the bases and putting the Bruins ahead 7-0.
Martin’s blast drove in teammates Mulivai Levu, Roch Cholowsky, and Dean West and established a lead that the Bruins would never relinquish.
Ian May Shuts Down Arizona State Rally
Although Arizona State attempted to mount a comeback, UCLA’s bullpen answered the call. Reliever Ian May entered the game in the fourth inning and immediately ended a Sun Devil rally by inducing a double play from Kien Vu.
May pitched five innings and allowed only three runs, two of which came late in his outing. His performance stabilized the Bruins’ defense and allowed the offense to continue its momentum.
“His line doesn’t completely tell you the story,” said head coach John Savage. “I don’t think we’d be where we were tonight without Ian.”
Bruins Offense Stays Aggressive
The Bruins kept pressure on Arizona State throughout the game. After ASU cut into the deficit with runs in the second and fourth innings, UCLA responded with consistent offensive production. Even a pair of late ninth-inning runs from the Sun Devils couldn’t overcome the early damage done by Martin’s slam and UCLA’s relentless attack.
What’s Next for UCLA Baseball
With this victory, UCLA will play in the Los Angeles Regional final on Sunday at 7 p.m., where they will face the winner of the Arizona State vs. UC Irvine elimination game. A win in the final would send the Bruins to the Super Regionals, bringing them one step closer to Omaha and the College World Series.
FAQs: UCLA vs Arizona State Baseball – NCAA Los Angeles Regional 2025
Q1: Who hit the grand slam for UCLA against Arizona State?
A: Roman Martin hit the grand slam in the second inning, driving in four runs and giving UCLA a commanding early lead in their 11-5 win.
Q2: What was the final score of the UCLA vs. Arizona State game?
A: UCLA defeated Arizona State with a final score of 11-5 in the Los Angeles Regional.
Q3: How did UCLA pitcher Ian May perform in the game?
A: Ian May pitched five innings in relief, allowing only three runs. His performance was crucial in shutting down a potential Arizona State rally and securing the Bruins’ lead.
Q4: What’s next for UCLA baseball after beating Arizona State?
A: UCLA advances to the Los Angeles Regional Final and will face the winner of the Arizona State vs. UC Irvine elimination game for a spot in the NCAA Super Regionals.
Q5: Where was the game played between UCLA and Arizona State?
A: The game was played at Jackie Robinson Stadium in Los Angeles as part of the NCAA Los Angeles Regional.
Q6: What is UCLA’s record after the win over Arizona State?
A: After the victory, UCLA improved their season record to 43-16.
Q7: When is UCLA’s next baseball game in the 2025 NCAA tournament?
A: UCLA will play the Los Angeles Regional Final on Sunday at 7 p.m., with a chance to advance to the Super Regionals.
Conclusion
UCLA’s dominant 11-5 victory over Arizona State showcased their postseason readiness, fueled by Roman Martin’s momentum-shifting grand slam and a clutch bullpen performance from Ian May. With a balanced combination of power hitting and dependable pitching, the Bruins are proving they have the tools to make a deep NCAA tournament run. As they head into the Los Angeles Regional final, UCLA carries confidence, momentum, and a clear focus: advancing to the Super Regionals and continuing their journey to Omaha.
