Carbondale Reporter

Southern Illinois University rallied with a significant six-run eighth inning to defeat Southeast Missouri State 7-3 at Itchy Jones Stadium. Kaleb Hall led the comeback for the Salukis with a three-run triple in the eighth inning, marking the team's first lead. Hall's performance included three hits and three RBIs. The rally was supported by an infield RBI single from John Lemm, adding insurance to the Saluki lead.

The Salukis' pitching was commendable throughout. Al Holguin pitched 5.1 innings, allowing two earned runs and limiting his opponents to four hits. Tanner Gerdes was flawless in relief, retiring five consecutive batters. Dylan Petrey secured the victory with a scoreless eighth inning, while Sam Frizzi closed the game with a perfect ninth, earning his fifth save of the season.

Cecil Lofton contributed two hits, and Gabe Petrucelli scored twice, enhancing the Salukis' offense. Despite an early 3-1 deficit, the team held SEMO to only four hits and shut them out in the closing innings.

Michael Mugan and Cole Warehime initially put SEMO ahead with a combined three RBIs, but they were unable to score after the sixth inning due to Southern Illinois' defensive efforts. Southern Illinois will travel for a three-game series against Indiana State, starting Friday at Bob Warn Field.