Bowling Green, KY, September 13, 2025
News Summary
The Bowling Green Hot Rods faced elimination in the South Atlantic League Division Series after a 10-5 loss to the Hub City Spartanburgers. The game showcased a back-and-forth struggle, with the Hot Rods tying the game late but ultimately falling short. With this defeat, their hope for a consecutive league title and strong season record has ended. Fans are now looking forward to the start of the 2026 season in April.
Bowling Green, KY – Bowling Green Hot Rods’ Season Ends with 10-5 Loss to Hub City in South Atlantic League Division Series
The Bowling Green Hot Rods faced a disappointing end to their season after a 10-5 loss to the Hub City Spartanburgers in Game 2 of the South Atlantic League Division Series. The game was played on Thursday at Bowling Green Ballpark, resulting in a best-of-three series sweep that eliminated the Hot Rods from playoff contention.
Bowling Green needed to secure a victory to prevent elimination, but Hub City took control early in the game. They scored three runs in the second inning, starting with an RBI single from Arturo Disla, followed by a two-run single from Casey Cook, giving Hub City a 3-0 lead. The Hot Rods quickly responded with a two-run homer from Daniel Vellojin during their half of the second inning, narrowing the score to 3-2.
As the game progressed, Hub City managed to extend their lead again, with Rafe Perich adding to the scoreboard with another RBI single in the third inning, making it 4-2. The Hot Rods showed resilience, loading the bases in the fourth inning and reducing the gap further with an RBI single from Mac Horvath, but Emilien Pitre was thrown out attempting to score. Bowling Green eventually tied the game at 4-4 in the seventh inning when Blake Robertson delivered an RBI single, although he was thrown out while trying to move to second base.
In the eighth inning, Hub City reclaimed the lead with a leadoff homer from Perich, pushing the score to 5-4. However, Bowling Green fought back in the ninth inning, tying the game at 5-5 after Angel Mateo hit an RBI single, as the first four batters reached base. Unfortunately, the Hot Rods left the bases loaded, unable to capitalize on this opportunity to take the lead.
In a dramatic turn, Rafe Perich launched a two-run homer in the top of the 10th inning, giving Hub City a 7-5 advantage. They added three more runs in the inning, concluding the game at 10-5. With this loss, Bowling Green’s season ends with a record of 69-61, having won the South Division in both halves of the league. The Hot Rods had hoped to secure their second consecutive South Atlantic League title and their fourth championship in five years, but this defeat ended their aspirations.
Bowling Green’s performance in the game was characterized by missed opportunities, finishing with 5-for-26 hitting with runners in scoring position and stranding 15 batters throughout the contest. Emilien Pitre led the offense with three hits, while Mac Horvath contributed two hits. Blake Robertson and Daniel Vellojin also added two hits each to the tally.
Looking ahead, the Hot Rods will begin their 2026 season on April 2, with a nine-game homestand against the Winston-Salem Dash. Meanwhile, Hub City is set to advance and face Brooklyn in the South Atlantic League championship series.
FAQ Section
What was the final score of the Bowling Green Hot Rods game against Hub City?
The final score was Bowling Green Hot Rods 5, Hub City Spartanburgers 10.
What date did the Hot Rods play their final game of the season?
The Hot Rods played their final game of the season on Thursday.
When will the Bowling Green Hot Rods start their 2026 season?
The Bowling Green Hot Rods will begin their 2026 season on April 2.
How many runs did Bowling Green leave stranded during the game?
Bowling Green stranded 15 runners during the game.
Key Game Statistics
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Bowling Green’s Final Score | 5 |
| Hub City’s Final Score | 10 |
| Bowling Green’s Record | 69-61 |
| Runners Left Stranded | 15 |
| Game Location | Bowling Green Ballpark |
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Additional Resources
- Bowling Green Daily News
- WNKY: Hot Rods Season Ends
- MiLB: Hub City Game Recap
- Wikipedia: South Atlantic League
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Baseball
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
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