West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University's baseball team faced a challenging game against Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), ultimately falling short with an 11-9 loss in the second game of their series. The Leathernecks' season record now stands at 7-27, including a 3-11 mark in Ohio Valley Conference play.

The game saw Western Illinois starter Tyler Kapruan deliver a strong performance initially, pitching two consecutive one-two-three innings. However, SIUE capitalized on errors by Western Illinois to score three runs in the third inning.

In response, Western Illinois mounted an offensive effort against SIUE's starting pitcher Alex Rodriguez. Max Slavens began the rally with a double, followed by Adam Juran drawing a walk. With bases loaded due to an error by SIUE, Chris Hege hit a ground ball that led to two runs after another error. "Tied back at two," J.R. Heavilin took advantage and hit a three-run home run, giving WIU a temporary 5-3 lead.

Kapruan continued his solid pitching through the fourth and fifth innings but allowed SIUE to close the gap with one run in the sixth inning before leaving with a narrow 5-4 lead. The Cougars regained momentum in the seventh inning with two more runs, taking a 6-5 lead.

Western Illinois responded again when Chris Hege doubled and scored on Trevor Leon's single, leveling the score once more. Despite this effort, SIUE added three runs in the eighth and two more in the ninth innings, extending their lead to 11-6.

The Leathernecks attempted another comeback in their final at-bats. Kyree Alexander reached base on an error and scored alongside Liam Bushey following additional hits and errors from SIUE's defense. Trevor Leon and Justin Jang each contributed RBIs as WIU closed the gap to 11-9 before ultimately succumbing to defeat.

J.R. Heavilin had an impressive day at bat for Western Illinois, going 2-for-3 with a home run and three RBIs while also drawing two walks. Other players contributing extra-base hits included Adam Juran, Liam Bushey, Chris Hege, and Max Slavens.

The series between Western Illinois and SIUE concludes tomorrow at 1:00 p.m.