The River Rally Late to Defeat Polk State

WINTER HAVEN, FL - The River used a dominant seven-run ninth inning to pull away from Polk State and secure a 10–4 victory on Tuesday.

Jacob Suazo led the offensive charge, going 3-for-4 with three singles and two RBIs. Niko Benested also collected three hits, while Anthony Espinoza drove in a pair of runs as part of the late surge.

The River struck first in the top of the first inning, stringing together three singles. Niko Benested opened the scoring with an RBI single to give the River an early advantage. Polk State responded in the fourth when Gavalo homered to left field, tying the game at three. The hosts briefly took the lead in the sixth on an RBI single from Gavalo, making it 4–3.

In the ninth, the River's offense erupted. RBI singles from Niko Benested, Jacob Suazo, Vinny Dinzeo, Anthony Espinoza (two runs), Kendy Blanco, and EJ Burns flipped the game and put it out of reach. Jonathan Wolaver earned the win in relief, allowing just one hit over two scoreless innings while striking out three. Dane Rossi started for the River, tossing four innings with six strikeouts. Max Gonzalez added a scoreless inning out of the bullpen.

The River totaled 14 hits and stole three bases, including two by Blanco. Polk State finished with 10 hits, led by Gavalo and Cruz, who each recorded two. Gavalo drove in all four runs for Polk State.

Indian River will be back at home this week as they host Keiser JV on Thursday and Elevate on Friday.

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