West Central Reporter

Catchers Adam Juran and Brock Lummus delivered strong performances for Western Illinois against UT Martin, each achieving a .500 batting average. Lummus contributed significantly with a leadoff double and two RBIs in a 7-6 victory, while maintaining a perfect fielding percentage. Juran started as the primary catcher in the first two games, securing five hits including two doubles.

Western Illinois closer Caden Kratz added two more saves to his record over the weekend, now totaling six saves this season, placing him third in NCAA baseball rankings.

Liam Bushey excelled against Cincinnati and Iowa, achieving a .588 batting average and driving in four RBIs. His performance included two doubles and a home run, contributing to Western Illinois's win against Cincinnati on March 12th, marking their first victory over a Big 12 opponent since 2009.

Caden Kratz demonstrated his prowess from the bullpen with six strikeouts across three innings without allowing any walks during games against Eastern Kentucky.

Adam Juran was named Ohio Valley Player of the Week on February 19th. He began the season strongly both offensively and defensively, leading his team with ten total bases and maintaining a perfect fielding percentage.

Head Coach Terry Davis secured his first win with Western Illinois following their 6-5 victory over Austin Peay. Davis is noted as the first head coach since 1955 to start his Leatherneck coaching career with a win.

Western Illinois Athletics joined the Ohio Valley Conference on July 1st as its 11th member. The Leathernecks will debut new uniforms funded by donations from the 1974 Hall of Fame Baseball team celebrating its 50th anniversary.

The Leatherneck Baseball team raised over $18,000 at their First Pitch Dinner event on February 3rd to support various aspects of their program including training facilities and player development tools.

This season marks the celebration of the 50th anniversary of Western Illinois's Hall of Fame team from 1974 which achieved significant success with a record-breaking number of wins at that time.