West Central Reporter

The Western Illinois baseball team faced a setback on Friday, losing to the UT Martin Skyhawks with a score of 14-3. This result leaves the Leathernecks with a record of 1-1 in Ohio Valley Conference play and an overall standing of 5-15.

Kyle Rosenfeld began the game for Western Illinois, achieving three strikeouts in the initial half inning. The team's offense showed early promise as Liam Bushey hit a two-out double at the bottom of the first inning. However, neither team managed to score in the first two innings.

UT Martin broke through in the third inning, starting with a single followed by a two-run home run. They further extended their lead with a two-run double. Despite opportunities, Western Illinois left runners stranded on second and third base during this inning.

The Skyhawks added to their advantage with additional runs after walks and singles, reaching a 6-0 lead by the end of four innings. In response, Western Illinois attempted to narrow the gap in the seventh inning when Brock Lummus doubled down the left field line. Although they loaded bases, they only managed to score two runs off Grant Palmer's hit into right field.

In subsequent innings, UT Martin widened their lead significantly by scoring eight more runs across the eighth and ninth innings, concluding with a 14-2 advantage. The Leathernecks fought back briefly; Polad and Bushey secured walks before Kyree Alexander drove in one final run for WIU with an infield single.

Rosenfeld matched his career high by recording seven strikeouts over three innings. Eight different players contributed hits for Western Illinois, including extra-base hits from Adam Juran, Liam Bushey, and Brock Lummus. Additionally, they reached base eight times through five walks and three hit-by-pitches.

The series between these teams will conclude with a decisive game set for Saturday at 1:00 p.m.