West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University's softball team delivered an impressive performance, defeating Tennessee State 15-7 on April 7, 2025, at Mary Ellen McKee Stadium in Macomb, Illinois. The victory was marked by fourteen hits, including four home runs, and benefiting from ten walks allowed by Tennessee State's pitchers.

The game began with Western Illinois trailing 4-1 in the first inning. Payton Brown led the comeback with a grand slam as part of a nine-run second inning. Brown's performance included three home runs and six RBIs, tying the single-game home run record for Western Illinois softball. RyLee German added a home run and three RBIs, while Malia Robertson contributed two RBIs.

Tennessee State's offense was ignited by Duke, who reached base four times. Spencer hit a solo home run and produced an RBI, and Jean-Baptist added two RBIs with a base hit.

Western Illinois used three pitchers, with Lillie Wools starting and allowing three earned runs in one inning. Libby Spaulding and Kathryn McChristy handled the remaining innings, with McChristy giving up one run in 2.2 innings and striking out two.

For Tennessee State, pitcher Castillo lasted only 1.2 innings, giving up five earned runs. The combined efforts of Holder and Salcido could not contain Western Illinois, allowing nine additional runs.

The game ended in five innings through the run rule, with Western Illinois making two double plays and leaving only four runners stranded.

Western Illinois will continue OVC play at Lindenwood on April 12-13, with games scheduled for noon, 2 p.m., and noon.

For more information on Leatherneck Softball, visit GoLeathernecks.com and follow on social media platforms.