West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University's baseball team faced a setback against Illinois State University in their midweek match on Wednesday afternoon. The game concluded with a 7-4 defeat for the Leathernecks, who now hold a season record of 6-22.

The Redbirds took an early lead by scoring in both the first and second innings, establishing a 2-0 advantage. Western Illinois attempted to recover in the third inning when Trevor Leon achieved the team's first hit. Leon advanced due to Chris Hege's ground out, allowing Kyree Alexander to drive him home with a single, narrowing the gap.

Illinois State widened their lead with three more runs in the fourth inning. However, Western Illinois fought back in the fifth inning with four hits that resulted in three runs. Jackson Horn initiated this rally with a walk, followed by Hege's single. Alexander then hit an RBI double, and Grant Palmer drove in two more runs with a single, bringing WIU within one run.

Despite another opportunity in the sixth inning where they managed consecutive singles, Western Illinois couldn't capitalize as Leon was tagged out at home plate.

Illinois State secured their victory by adding two more runs in the seventh inning, ending the game at 7-4.

Chris Hege and Kyree Alexander played pivotal roles for Western Illinois, combining for four of the team's ten hits and driving in two runs. Grant Palmer contributed two RBIs on his single hit. The Leathernecks recorded only two walks during the game and utilized seven pitchers who collectively achieved eight strikeouts.

Looking ahead, Western Illinois will resume Ohio Valley Conference play this weekend as they travel to face Morehead State in a three-game series.