Southern Illinois baseball lost to Lindenwood for the first time in program history after two ninth-inning runs led to a 3-1 defeat on March 31 at Itchy Jones Stadium.
The loss matters for Southern Illinois as it marks a turning point in their season, breaking an undefeated streak against Lindenwood and highlighting ongoing challenges with offensive production.
Redshirt freshman Alec Ammerman delivered his best performance of the year, pitching seven innings without allowing an earned run. He struck out six batters and allowed only three hits and one walk. The Salukis took an early lead in the second inning with a sacrifice fly from Jaden Flores, but both teams struggled offensively through six innings. A dropped catch by Julio Guerrero in the seventh allowed Lindenwood to tie the game.
Offensively, both teams combined to go hitless in 26 opportunities with runners on base, including nine chances for Southern Illinois with runners in scoring position. In the top of the ninth inning, Jake Radosevich hit a solo home run off Jack MacIntosh—the first home run MacIntosh has allowed this season—giving Lindenwood a lead. Kam Edwards added another run after singling up the middle and advancing around the bases before scoring on a wild pitch.
Southern Illinois had one last chance in their half of the ninth but could not capitalize as Easton Rakers struck out Kye Watson looking to end the game. Rakers earned his first win of the season while MacIntosh took his third loss.
Looking ahead, Southern Illinois will resume conference play Thursday when they host Illinois State for their first home Missouri Valley Conference matchup of the year. With rain expected over the weekend, fans are advised to check social media channels for schedule updates.
