Eastern Illinois University lost 10-8 to UT Martin in the final game of their weekend baseball series, according to an April 26 announcement. The defeat leaves Eastern Illinois with a record of 24-15 overall and 12-6 in Ohio Valley Conference play, while UT Martin improves to 21-22 overall and 7-11 in conference games.
The closely contested match saw six lead changes. UT Martin started strong with two runs in the first inning off Eastern Illinois starter Dalton Boruff, who allowed two runs on three hits over just over two innings. Eastern Illinois responded with three runs in the third inning, highlighted by Chris Worcester’s two-RBI double and James Love’s RBI double that gave the Panthers a brief lead.
Ethan Rossi hit his third home run of the season for Eastern Illinois in the fourth inning, but defensive errors allowed UT Martin to regain control with three runs later that frame. Mike O’Conor kept Eastern Illinois competitive by hitting two home runs—one each in the sixth and eighth innings—but relief pitcher Jarret Kinder surrendered five runs during less than an inning of work as UT Martin surged ahead late.
UT Martin capitalized on wild pitches and timely hitting, including a single from TJ Dunsford that drove in two more runs. Andrew Davis added a double for additional insurance. Although James Love provided one last RBI single for Eastern Illinois in the ninth inning, it was not enough to overcome the deficit.
Kinder took his first loss of the season for Eastern Illinois after giving up key late-inning runs. Will Turner earned his fourth win for UT Martin by pitching three innings out of relief and allowing three runs on four hits.
Looking ahead, Eastern Illinois will travel to Peoria, Illinois for a midweek game against Bradley on Wednesday, April 29 at 6:00 PM.
