Dolphins step up semis bid against Unibikers

MANILA, Philippines – Defending champion Cebu begins its quest for the outright semifinal berth as it collides with Dumaguete today in Baseball Philippines Series V at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium.

The Dolphins, with a 4-4 card, are hardpressed to prevail over the Unibikers (3-6) in their 7 a.m. encounter as they try to stay in the hunt for a semifinal seat in the league organized by Community Sports Inc.

Standing in the way of Cebu is Manila, which holds a two-game edge with a 6-3 slate.

A victory by the Dolphins will give them the momentum they would need when they resume their suspended game against the Sharks tomorrow.

Manila and Cebu battled to a 9-all count at the end of the 11th inning before the match was called off after it exceeded the three-hour limit.

The Dolphins, however, must win against the Sharks by two or more runs to grab the outright semis seat in the tournament sponsored by Gatorade, Industrial Enterprises Inc., Philippine Transmarine Carriers Inc., Harbour Centre and the Heritage Park with partners Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, Philippine Amateur Baseball Association, Philippine Umpires Association and DZSR Sports Radio.

Batangas, winner of BP Series III, booked the No. 1 spot in the semis after sweeping the eliminations for a 10-0 record.

Meanwhile, action in Junior Baseball Philippines also resumes today with Mighty Sports-Marikina and Alabang Tigers clashing at 2 p.m. with the last seat in the championship game at stake.

The Tigers is in second with a 2-2 mark but the Indians tote a 1-2 card.

In the first game, early finalist Cagayan (4-0) aims to stay unbeaten as they face winless Quezon City (0-3) at 10:30 a.m.