West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University's baseball team faced a setback with an 11-4 defeat against the University of Illinois at Illinois Field on Tuesday night. The Leathernecks initiated the scoring in the first inning but struggled as Illinois took control, adding two runs in both the second and third innings.

Western Illinois was held scoreless for five consecutive innings before mounting a seventh-inning rally. Kyree Alexander began with a single, advanced to third on a steal and passed ball, and was driven home by Brock Lummus' RBI single. This reduced Illinois' lead to 4-2. Paul Osting and Krayton Morse then contributed back-to-back singles, loading the bases with one out. Liam Bushey's grounder tied the game at four after he beat the throw to first during a double play attempt.

Osting went 2-4, reaching base three times and scoring twice. Lummus concluded his performance with two hits in three at-bats, including one RBI, while Alexander also recorded two hits.

Pitcher Harrison Dubois started for WIU, completing two innings with three earned runs allowed and one strikeout. Relievers Alex Esker and Eric Rawlings offered strong performances from the bullpen. Esker pitched two scoreless innings with four strikeouts, while Rawlings held Illinois scoreless over his two frames. Anthony Steinhoff also delivered an impressive seventh inning by striking out two batters.

Illinois regained momentum in the eighth inning with seven runs, securing their victory.

The Leathernecks are set to return to Macomb for their home opener against Illinois State on Thursday at 2 p.m.

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