McLean County Times

The Illinois Wesleyan University baseball team secured a series sweep against Carroll University on Saturday, March 30, at Horenberger Field. The Titans clinched the first game with a 3-0 victory and followed it up with a comeback win in the second game, ending 7-6. This result brings IWU's overall record to 13-7 and their College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) standing to 3-1. Carroll University's record now stands at 5-13 overall and 0-3 in CCIW play.

In the first game, both teams remained scoreless until the fourth inning when senior Jacob Cyrus advanced through bases due to hits from teammates and was brought home by sophomore Jimmy Gurgone. The Titans' defense played a crucial role, notably with senior Louis Perona making a diving catch in the sixth inning to prevent scoring opportunities for Carroll. In the seventh inning, IWU extended their lead with contributions from senior Dino Biggers and junior William Duff, securing a final score of 3-0.

Junior Dalen Banks started on the mound for IWU, pitching seven innings with five strikeouts. Sophomore Luke Costello closed out the game, earning a save over two innings.

The second game saw Illinois Wesleyan take an early lead with three runs in the first inning. Despite Carroll's efforts to come back and even take a lead later in the game, IWU tied it up again in the ninth inning thanks to strategic plays involving Perona and junior Justin Gadomski.

A strong performance by junior Luke Schwab in relief during extra innings allowed IWU to regain momentum. Sophomore Jack Flagg's significant hit in the tenth set up Duff's decisive single that sealed their 7-6 victory.

Sophomore Cole Shamhart pitched seven innings for IWU, recording eight strikeouts but did not factor into the decision. Schwab secured the win after throwing three scoreless innings.

Looking ahead, Illinois Wesleyan will continue their CCIW schedule against Elmhurst University on Wednesday, April 3.