LOS ANGELES, CA – In a stunning upset at Jackie Robinson Stadium on , the UC San Diego Tritons defeated the No. 1 ranked UCLA Bruins 8-7. The victory came after UCLA had secured the first two games of the series, marking a dramatic turnaround for the Tritons.
The Tritons, now 1-2 on the season, delivered a powerful offensive performance, highlighted by four home runs. This offensive explosion proved to be the difference against a UCLA team that had previously appeared dominant. The game was a back-and-forth affair, but UC San Diego ultimately prevailed, handing the Bruins their first loss of the year.
UCLA had initially taken the first game of the series on , winning 8-4. In that contest, the Bruins capitalized on a four-run fourth inning to overcome an early 3-0 deficit established by the Tritons. J.C. Allen and Trevian Martinez were bright spots for UC San Diego in the opener, each recording multiple hits. Despite a solid effort from the UCSD bullpen, they were unable to contain the UCLA offense.
The game saw a different outcome. Details of the individual innings reveal a contest filled with momentum swings. In the second inning, a double by N. Costello drove in J.C. Allen, putting the Tritons on the board. Later, a single by T. Martinez brought Costello home, extending the lead. The Tritons continued to build their advantage in the third, with Allen singling to score A. Potestio. A walk by Martin then brought in another run, followed by a two-RBI single from Brennan, pushing the score to 3-3.
The Bruins responded with a significant offensive push of their own, but the Tritons managed to stay within striking distance. The game remained tightly contested throughout the later innings, setting the stage for a dramatic finish. The final score of 8-7 underscores the competitive nature of the contest.
J.C. Allen led the Tritons offensively in the series opener, going 3-for-4 with an RBI and two runs scored. Trevian Martinez also contributed significantly, going 2-for-4 with two RBIs. The Tritons recorded 8 hits in that game, while the Bruins managed 7. However, UCSD struggled with control, issuing 10 walks.
While specific details of the game-winning rally on are currently unavailable, the fact that UC San Diego was able to overcome the No. 1 team in the nation speaks volumes about their potential. The four home runs suggest a potent offensive capability that, if consistently harnessed, could make them a formidable opponent in the Big West Conference and beyond.
The upset victory is particularly noteworthy given UCLA’s ranking and home-field advantage. Jackie Robinson Stadium is known for its challenging atmosphere, making the Tritons’ win even more impressive. The game was broadcast on B1G+, allowing fans to witness the historic upset.
The Tritons’ performance in the series, despite the initial losses, demonstrates a resilience and competitive spirit. Their ability to challenge a top-ranked team like UCLA, even in defeat, suggests a program on the rise. The strong pitching performances, particularly from the bullpen in the opener, provide a foundation for future success.
Looking ahead, the Tritons will undoubtedly look to build on this momentum. The series continues with another game against UCLA on Saturday, providing an immediate opportunity to prove that victory was not a fluke. The team will need to maintain their offensive firepower and minimize errors to secure another win against the Bruins.
The early stages of the 2026 season have already presented challenges for UC San Diego, but the upset victory over UCLA offers a significant boost in confidence and a clear indication of their potential. The Tritons’ ability to compete with the nation’s best will be a key storyline to watch as the season progresses. The team’s record currently stands at 1-2, with the series against UCLA continuing to shape their early-season trajectory.
The Tritons’ success will likely hinge on the continued performance of key players like J.C. Allen and Trevian Martinez, as well as the development of their pitching staff. Their ability to consistently execute on both offense and defense will be crucial as they navigate a challenging schedule. The coaching staff will be focused on building on the positive aspects of their game and addressing areas for improvement.
