Eastern Illinois University lost the final game of its weekend baseball series against Little Rock on April 19. The Panthers fell to a record of 21-14 overall and 10-5 in the Ohio Valley Conference, while Little Rock improved to 23-17 overall and 11-4 in conference play.
The loss was marked by Eastern Illinois’ struggles on the mound, as the team allowed 11 runs on 12 hits over seven innings. Jack Helms took his first loss of the season after pitching three innings and giving up four earned runs on five hits. Relievers Mac Zawistoski and Blaine Nunnally also gave up multiple runs during their appearances.
Little Rock’s Nic Bronzini earned his first win of the season by pitching five innings and allowing only one run. That lone run for Eastern Illinois came in the third inning when Mike O’Conor hit his eighth home run of the season to deep left field.
Little Rock’s offense was consistent throughout, scoring in four out of six possible innings, including three or more runs in three separate frames. The Trojans built a quick lead, going up 7-1 through four innings. The game ended after seven innings due to a run-rule, with Little Rock scoring four runs in the sixth inning using two doubles, a walk, and a hit by pitch.
Statistically, Eastern Illinois managed just one run on four hits with no errors; Little Rock finished with eleven runs on twelve hits without any errors. Mike O’Conor went one-for-two with a home run and an RBI, while Tyler Castro had two hits in three at-bats.
Looking ahead, Eastern Illinois is scheduled to host Butler at home on Tuesday, April 21 at 5:00 p.m.
