Carbondale Reporter

Southern Illinois University faced a tough contest at Itchy Jones Stadium, ending in a 10-8 loss against Arkansas State. The Salukis and Red Wolves split their season series, having both secured victories on the road.

Southern Illinois, with a record of 24-12, started strong with a three-run advantage in the first inning, thanks to a two-run home run by Jordan Bach and an RBI single from Cecil Lofton. Bach performed well, achieving two hits in four at-bats, including his fifth home run this season.

Arkansas State, standing at 17-19, narrowed the gap to 3-2 in the third inning, but SIU replied with another four runs during the bottom half of the inning. John Lemm's two-run single was a key contribution, further extended by a fielding error by the Red Wolves. SIU then led 7-2.

The Red Wolves retaliated in the fourth inning, leveling the game at seven, which led to SIU's starting pitcher Al Holguin being relieved. Holguin allowed four runs across 3.1 innings, with three hits and four strikeouts. Arkansas State moved ahead with two more runs in the sixth. However, Southern Illinois equalized at 8-8 in the ninth when Michael Mylott's sacrifice fly brought Bach home, leading to extra innings.

Efforts by SIU's bullpen were noteworthy, with Tanner Gerdes, Jackson Payne, and Sam Frizzi joining forces for 4.2 innings, collectively allowing just three hits while striking out seven, maintaining the team's competitive stance.

The score was level until the 11th inning, when Arkansas State managed to score two pivotal runs through hits by Wil French and Cross Jumper against SIU reliever Dylan Petrey, who recorded his third loss of the season. SIU had several scoring opportunities, but Arkansas State's Brett Foss, who secured the win with 1.1 innings of spotless relief, kept them at bay, resulting in 10 stranding runners.

Looking ahead, Southern Illinois is set to face Belmont this weekend at Itchy Jones Stadium, with the series scheduled to run from Thursday to Saturday. However, potential weather conditions may cause schedule changes. Updates will be available on SIUSalukis.com.

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