Miguel Ruiz returned just in time for Trevor Browne.

That the team’s ace actually is back is quite remarkable.

On Thursday, Ruiz took the mound for the first time since suffering multiple fractures after getting hit in the face by a pitch during an early regular season game. Despite wearing a protective mask, Ruiz delivered a masterful performance against a top-10 opponent, Millennium, and with Trevor Browne’s playoff hopes on the line.

The senior allowed a leadoff double but was perfect the rest of the way in Trevor Browne’s 5-1 victory. Millennium run-ruled Trevor Browne in their previous meeting this year.

Ruiz struck out six batters during 5 2/3 innings before exiting to a standing ovation from the home fans. Senior Mark Hernandez picked up the save.

It’s hard to upstage Christian Camacho, but it likely didn’t bother the very humble Camacho that his teammate, Ruiz, was the center of attention on a day Camacho broke a state record. Camacho’s two-out double in the first inning broke the old all-division state career record for doubles.

Wilcox’s Ryno Bethel (1998-2001) was the all-division career record holder with 56 doubles.