West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University's baseball team experienced a tough loss against Southern Illinois University in a lengthy 12-inning game, ending with a score of 12-11. Despite an impressive start with an eight-run first inning, WIU was unable to maintain their lead.

The Leathernecks had an explosive beginning, highlighted by back-to-back home runs from Liam Bushey and Cesar Franco. Adam Juran's single continued the momentum as WIU's first three batters reached base. Chris Hege further extended the lead with a two-run single, and Bushey capped off the inning with his first grand slam for WIU, bringing in four RBIs.

Southern Illinois slowly closed the gap, scoring six runs in the fourth inning and eventually tying the game at 11 by the seventh inning. Caden Kratz and Eric Cunning managed to hold SIU at bay through several innings until SIU scored in the 12th to secure their win.

Liam Bushey had a standout performance, going 5-for-7 with two home runs and five RBIs. Chris Hege and Kyree Alexander also contributed significantly with three hits each. Overall, WIU recorded 18 hits during the game.

WIU will face SIUE next in a three-game series starting Friday at Alfred D. Boyer Stadium.