he UIS baseball team defeated McKendree 6-5 on Thursday to start the series, clinching its spot in the conference tournament with the win. A pivotal three-run sixth inning played a significant role in securing the victory.
Tommy Atkinson was hit by a pitch to start the first inning for the Prairie Stars, followed by a walk to
Corey Boyette.
Kody Morton then singled to left center, driving in Atkinson for the early lead. UIS led 1-0 after the first inning.Â
In the third inning, McKendree took the lead with a three-run effort. Boyette responded with a solo homer for the Prairie Stars.Â
McKendree added another run in the fifth inning on an RBI single, extending its lead to 4-2.
UIS answered with a strong sixth inning.
Kaden Griffitts doubled, scoring Morton, who reached on an error.
Johnny Wendling then delivered a two-RBI single, pushing the Prairie Stars back in front. The home team led 5-4 after six innings.
In the eighth inning, the Bearcats tied the game with a solo shot. UIS regained the lead when
Noah Caceres scored on a sacrifice fly by
Hunter Moser. The Prairie Stars were up 6-5 through eight innings.
Jaden Mathon closed the game with a scoreless ninth inning, securing the 6-5 victory over McKendree.
Zane Danielson made his fourth start of the season, pitching the first four innings.
Derek Huber followed with two innings of relief, then
Jaden Mathon closed the game with three innings, yielding 1 earned run on 1 hit, striking out 4, and securing his third win of the season.
UIS has a record of 31-16 and holds a conference record of 19-10, having clinched a spot in the conference tournament with the win. McKendree has a record of 21-26 with a 13-6 record in the GLVC.
UIS and McKendree continue the series with a doubleheader on Friday, set for 1:00 p.m.
Â
