McLean County Times

Illinois Wesleyan University's baseball team concluded its participation in the Gene Cusic Classic with a narrow defeat against Alfred State College on Friday, March 14, in Fort Myers, Florida. The game ended with a 5-4 victory for the Pioneers, advancing their record to 9-5 while the Titans fell to 5-6.

Cole Shamhart started as pitcher for Illinois Wesleyan, delivering five innings and achieving two strikeouts. Despite his efforts, Shamhart took the loss and now holds a season record of 0-3. Relief pitching was provided by Nathan Waterman, Jack Flagg, and Luke Costello, each contributing one inning.

On offense, senior Cade Tomhave went two-for-three and recorded a run batted in. Additional runs were scored by Jack Novak and seniors Tristan Figus, Justin Gadomski, and William Duff. Overall, the Titans managed eight hits including one home run and two stolen bases.

The Titans began strong with Tristan Figus walking and stealing second base in the first inning before scoring on Jimmy Gurgone's fly ball to right field. However, Alfred State responded robustly with four runs in their half of the first inning to take a lead they maintained throughout most of the game.

Despite no change in score during the second inning due to effective defense led by Shamhart, Alfred State extended their lead with another run in the fifth inning. In response during the seventh inning, Gadomski hit a home run for Illinois Wesleyan reducing Alfred State's lead to 5-2.

In an attempt at a comeback during the ninth inning, Matt Hudik reached base as pinch hitter followed by John Philip Ferraro also reaching base; Duff then ran for Ferraro while Tomhave drove Hudik home narrowing it further to 5-3. Gurgone singled bringing Duff across home plate closing gap at 5-4 but ultimately unable add more runs allowing Alfred State secure win.

Looking ahead Illinois Wesleyan will host Prinicipia College at Jack Horenberger Field on Tuesday March 18 starting at 5 p.m.