West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University faced a challenging series opener against Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), falling 16-3 in the first game. The loss brought Western's record to 7-26 overall and 3-10 in conference play.

The SIUE Cougars quickly took control of the game, scoring three runs in the first inning and adding two more in the third for an early 5-0 lead. Western Illinois managed to get on the scoreboard in the bottom of the third inning when Cesar Franco drew a walk and was advanced by Adam Juran's double. Franco scored on a passed ball, narrowing the deficit to 5-1.

Throughout the game, Western Illinois struggled to find crucial hits despite loading the bases several times. In the ninth inning, they attempted a comeback after starting with a 16-1 disadvantage. Liam Bushey and Reece Davis initiated with consecutive walks, followed by Justin Jang's single that moved them forward. J.R. Heavilin grounded into a double play, allowing Bushey to score from third base. Kyree Alexander then hit an RBI double, bringing WIU's score to 16-3 before their rally ended with a groundout.

Adam Juran and Kyree Alexander both recorded multiple hits during the game. Cesar Franco went 1-for-3 with a double, marking consecutive games with extra-base hits for him. Brock Lummus continued his streak of reaching base safely in 17 straight games.

The series between Western Illinois and SIUE is set to continue at Alfred D. Boyer Stadium tomorrow at 2:00 p.m.