MACOMB, IL – A weekend series between the Western Illinois Leathernecks and the Lindenwood Lions unfolded with a mix of close contests and tough battles. After securing wins in the first two games on Saturday, the Leathernecks aimed for a series sweep on Sunday but fell short, losing 3-1 to the Lions.
In the series opener, Western Illinois edged out Lindenwood with a narrow 2-1 victory. Pitcher Kyle Rosenfeld led the defensive charge, allowing just one run over six innings while striking out five batters. The Leathernecks’ offense came through with timely hits, including Liam Bushey’s go-ahead RBI in the seventh inning.
Game two followed a similar pattern, with Western Illinois clinching a 3-2 win in another tightly contested matchup. Mason Telford delivered a solid pitching performance, and the Leathernecks’ offense rallied late to secure the victory, highlighted by Max Slavens’ clutch RBI single in the eighth inning.
However, Sunday’s game saw WIU struggle to generate hits against Lindenwood’s pitching. Despite an early infield single by Adam Juran, the Leathernecks managed only three more hits throughout the game. While the pitching held firm, allowing just three runs, Western Illinois couldn’t mount a comeback and ultimately fell short with a final score of 3-1.
Following the contest, the Leathernecks find themselves with a season record of 10-29, including a 5-12 record in Ohio Valley play. Looking ahead, they gear up for a busy week of matchups including a home game against Bradley on Tuesday, followed by a road trip to face Illinois State on Wednesday. The week will conclude with an alumni weekend celebration against Little Rock, where former WIU baseball players will be welcomed back to campus.