BERNALILLO — As Del Norte slowly chipped away at Bernalillo’s lead, the Spartans’ bullpen forced some critical outs when it mattered most.

As a result, Bernalillo eked out a 12-9 victory on Tuesday to open District 6-4A baseball action.

Bernalillo entered the top of the sixth inning with a commanding 10-1 lead, then Del Norte made things interesting with a seven-run barrage in the top half of the sixth.

Despite enduring that onslaught, Bernalillo reliever Gavin Armijo forced a flyout deep to centerfield to get out of the situation. He then got the first out in the top of the seventh, thanks to a liner to third base.

Despite allowing an RBI single, fellow BHS reliever Scott Aguilar secured the final two outs in the seventh inning, and the victory.

Bernalillo improved to 12-6, while Del Norte dropped to 2-14.

Descriptions for each photo are listed below, starting with the first one on the screen:
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Bernalillo’s Gavin Armijo throws to first base for an out on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at Bernalillo High School.

Bernalillo’s Kevin Griego makes contact at the plate on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at Bernalillo High School.

Bernalillo’s Kevin Griego slides in safe at third base for a triple on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at Bernalillo High School.

Bernalillo’s Kevin Griego scores a run after sliding in safe at home plate on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at Bernalillo High School.

Bernalillo’s Benjamin White looks to take off for second base on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at Bernalillo High School.

Bernalillo’s Nick Coriz darts down the third-base line and scores a run on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at Bernalillo High School.

Bernalillo’s Gavin Armijo scores a run after sliding in safe at home plate on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at Bernalillo High School.

Bernalillo’s Lorenzo Garcia greets Gavin Armijo (99) after Armijo scored a run on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at Bernalillo High School.

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Photos by Rio Rancho Observer staff writer Matt Hollinshead.