Liam Bushey set a new single-season home run record for Western Illinois University on May 3, hitting his 13th home run during the Leathernecks’ game against UT Martin.
Bushey surpassed the previous program record of 12 home runs in a season, which had been shared by several former players. The mark was last matched by Joe Rooney in 2002, with others including Sean Munger (2001), Ryan Langdon (2000), and Corny Stanley (1991) also having reached that total.
The achievement highlights Bushey’s strong performance this season and places him at the top of one of the most notable offensive categories in program history. With games remaining, he has an opportunity to extend his new record as the team approaches the end of its schedule.
Western Illinois University Leathernecks Men’s Baseball competes at the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I level according to the official website. The team is a member of the Ohio Valley Conference according to the official website and operates from Macomb, Illinois according to the official website. It functions as a collegiate athletic program within university sports according to the official website.
The Leathernecks’ baseball program has produced alumni who have played in Major League Baseball, including brothers Rick and Paul Reuschel from teams in the late 1960s according to the official website. The team also contributes to Western Illinois University’s athletic heritage through student-athlete development and community engagement rooted in longstanding traditions according to the official website.
As Bushey continues his season with more games ahead, he will have further opportunities to add to his new record while contributing to both individual achievement and team goals.
