The University of Hawaii Rainbows staged a remarkable comeback on March 14, 2024, rallying from a 6-0 deficit to defeat the Wichita State Shockers 7-6 at Les Murakami Stadium. Kody Watanabe’s two-run double in the bottom of the eighth inning proved pivotal in this thrilling encounter, further emphasizing the team’s resilience as they extended their winning streak to four games.
A crowd of 1,239 witnessed the dramatic turn of events as Hawaii improved to a record of 4-1. The Shockers’ starter, Matthew Cuccias, dominated early, throwing six hitless innings and facing only 18 batters before being replaced at the start of the seventh. The Rainbows, however, capitalized on the change, scoring four runs in that inning, which set the stage for Watanabe’s significant contribution.
Watanabe, who had struggled earlier in the game, stepped up with two outs in the eighth. Facing a 2-2 count against reliever Ryan Morrison, Watanabe connected with a well-timed hit that traveled to the right field wall, bringing home teammates Elijah Ickes and Tate Shimao. This moment marked Hawaii’s first lead of the game, highlighting their ability to thrive under pressure. “It’s a culture here. Seven, eight, nine is ’Bow Warrior time,” Watanabe commented, reflecting on the team’s fighting spirit.
Head coach Rich Hill, who has been at the helm for 39 years, recognized the significance of this comeback. “It’s one of the all-time greats since I’ve been coaching,” Hill stated, acknowledging the team’s determination. “Our guys just never quit. All the clichés you want, we just don’t flinch.”
The victory was bolstered by a strong performance from Grant Garman, who secured the win after pitching three innings of relief and allowing only one hit. John Alkire then closed the game with a strikeout and a game-ending double play in the ninth. The Rainbows turned the tide against a Shockers bullpen that had initially kept them at bay.
Hawaii’s resurgence began when Cuccias exited the game. The junior college transfer had previously excelled, achieving a perfect game against Northern Colorado. His absence allowed the Rainbows to capitalize on the changing dynamics of the match. “We knew it was time to eat,” Watanabe reflected on the shift in momentum.
Hawaii’s offense came alive in the seventh, taking advantage of two errors by Wichita State. Jake Redding’s infield hit led to two runs as the Rainbows broke the no-hit streak. They continued to push forward, adding more runs to narrow the gap. Ben Zeigler-Namoa’s single in the eighth brought the score to 6-5, setting the stage for Watanabe’s game-winning hit.
As excitement builds, tickets for Game 2 of the series are already sold out. The Rainbows will honor longtime head coach Les Murakami in a pregame ceremony for his recent induction into the College Baseball Hall of Fame. This celebration promises to add another layer of significance to what is already shaping up to be an incredible series against Wichita State.
