McLean County Times

After a successful two-game sweep against Augustana College, the Illinois Wesleyan University baseball team continued its winning streak by defeating Monmouth College on Sunday, April 14. The Titans improved their record to 19-9 overall, while Monmouth dropped to 11-12.

The game began with senior Louis Perona hitting a double off the first pitch. Junior Justin Gadomski followed with a hit that brought Perona home in the bottom of the first inning. Monmouth quickly responded with a home run in the top of the second to tie the game.

In the bottom of the second inning, junior Tristan Figus was walked and sophomore Jimmy Gurgone singled. Sophomore Tommy Willard then laid down a bunt that resulted in a throwing error by Monmouth's pitcher, allowing both Figus and Gurgone to score. With bases loaded, Gadomski hit a sacrifice fly to increase IWU's lead to 4-1.

The Titans extended their lead in the third inning when senior Jacob Cyrus scored on a Gurgone double, followed by Willard bringing Figus home with a sacrifice fly for a 6-1 lead. Monmouth attempted a comeback with another home run from their first baseman, narrowing the score to 6-2.

IWU maintained their momentum in later innings, scoring three more runs after an error by Monmouth's catcher and another sacrifice fly from Gurgone. However, Monmouth closed in during the eighth inning with a grand slam from their first baseman, bringing the score to 9-8.

Despite this rally from Monmouth, IWU held on for victory as they recorded three quick outs in the ninth inning. Senior Luke Uhwat started as pitcher for IWU and achieved his first win of the season with three strikeouts. Junior Luke Schwab earned credit for saving the game.

The Titans will have a three-day break before facing Wheaton College on Wednesday, April 17 at Pfund Stadium in Wheaton, Illinois.