Western Illinois University’s baseball team will continue its road trip with a series of games against the Akron Zips in Millington, Tennessee. The Leathernecks are set to play multiple games over the weekend as they face another nonconference opponent and prepare for their upcoming conference season.
In their most recent outing, Western Illinois lost 10-6 to the University of San Francisco at Benedetti Diamond. Despite recording only four hits, the Leathernecks managed six runs by drawing six walks and taking advantage of timely opportunities. Wandel Campana contributed two RBIs, while Dante Turgeon and Krayton Morse each added one RBI. Liam Bushey reached base four times and scored twice during the game. After falling behind due to a five-run third inning by San Francisco, Western Illinois rallied with three runs in the eighth but could not complete a comeback.
A key strength for Western Illinois heading into the 2026 season is its experienced roster. The team returns 20 players from last year’s squad, providing continuity across all position groups. This veteran core brings experience on the mound, at-bat consistency, and defensive familiarity at the collegiate level.
The returning players are present throughout every position group on the team. According to program officials: “With familiarity, chemistry, and experience already in place, the Leathernecks are positioned to take the next step in 2026.”
Fifth-year outfielder Liam Bushey leads this group after earning All-OVC honors in 2025 as Western Illinois’ only returning first- or second-team All-Conference selection. The coaching staff said: “A steady presence in the lineup, Bushey brings proven experience and leadership that will help set the tone offensively for Western Illinois in 2026.”
Sophomore infielder Kenneth Perez and senior right-handed pitcher Max Tripure were both named preseason standouts on the OVC’s 2026 Players to Watch list. Perez became a key contributor last season in the infield and continues improving at bat; Tripure provides stability as an experienced arm leading the pitching staff.
To succeed this season, coaches emphasize that consistency across offense, pitching, and defense will be essential. They stated: “Offensively, the Leathernecks must focus on quality at-bats; working counts, limiting strikeouts, and capitalizing with runners in scoring position rather than relying solely on big innings.” On pitching: “On the mound, establishing command early in games will be key,” which allows starters to work deeper into games while reducing pressure on relievers. Defensively: “Clean, mistake-free play has to be the standard; turning routine plays into outs and avoiding extra bases will make a major difference in tight conference matchups.” They concluded: “If Western Illinois can pair disciplined hitting with reliable pitching and sharp defense, they’ll put themselves in position to compete every weekend and build momentum throughout the 2026 season.”
Western Illinois University Leathernecks Men’s Baseball competes at NCAA Division I level as part of the Ohio Valley Conference. The program operates from Macomb, Illinois and has produced alumni who have advanced to Major League Baseball, including Rick and Paul Reuschel from the late 1960s.
For more information about Western Illinois University Leathernecks Men’s Baseball or updates throughout their season visit their official website or follow them on social media platforms X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.
