Eastern Illinois's offense exploded for 12 runs and 20 hits to even the weekend series 1-1 heading into Sunday. EIU improves to 7-8, while the Tigers drop to 5-13.
The Panthers scored seven out of the nine innings played, including two runs in five of the innings. EIU kicked off the afternoon with Brett Stanley smashing a home run to deep left field; however, the Tigers quickly quieted the early momentum with a three-run first inning.
On the mound for EIU, Bryce Riggs threw 5.0 complete innings, only giving up those three first-inning runs. Riggs also totaled five strikeouts and allowed just three hits.
For the Tigers, David Case struggled to slow down Eastern Illinois, throwing 4.0 innings while allowing five earned runs and eight hits.
Panthers took control of the game in the 4th inning, with Stanley once again collecting an RBI, scoring Mike O'Conor. Shortly after, EIU's aggressive offense continued, scoring one more run before the end of the inning. Chris Worcester singled through left field, driving in Luke Melton.
One inning later, the Panthers extended their advantage with two runs on four hits. Peyton Wilson singled to left field, scoring Worcester and Kyree Alexander, collecting two of his four RBIs in today's game.
The Tigers went down swinging, scoring four runs on three hits in the bottom of the 7th inning to energize the crowd. James Smith IV hit a deep left home run to clear the bases to cut the deficit to one.
However, EIU did not panic and once again found home plate. Ethan Rossi hit an RBI double, scoring Alexander after Kyree hit a double to left center, scoring Worcester.
In relief for the Panthers, James Geshel pitched 2.2 innings, allowing only one run and three hits to earn the save in a 12-7 decision.
By The Numbers:
EIU: 12 Runs, 20 Hits, 2 Errors
Memphis: 7 Runs, 8 Hits, 0 Errors
Brett Stanley: 4-6 with 2 RBIs and HR
Kyree Alexander: 4-6 with 3 RBIs
Peyton Wilson: 4-6 with 4 RBIs and SB
Ethan Rossi: 3-5 with an RBI, 2B, SB
Bryce Riggs: 5.0 innings, 3 ER, 3 H, 6 SO
James Geshel: 2.2 innings, 1 ER, 3 H, 2 SO
Up Next: Panthers will wrap up their weekend series against Memphis on Sunday with first pitch set for 2:05 PM CT. The game can be followed on ESPN+ and the live stat links.
