#19 Eagles Dominate in Perfect Weekend
Belleville, IL- The 16th-ranked Kirkwood Eagles baseball team embarked on a formidable journey to Belleville, IL, this past weekend, where they showcased their dominance on the diamond with a flawless 5-0 performance against Southwestern Illinois and Lake Land College.
The Eagles wasted no time asserting their authority, opening the weekend with a commanding 12-2 victory over Southwestern Illinois on Friday. Miles Risley and Clayton Campidilli led the offensive charge, each belting home runs to ignite Kirkwood's explosive offense. Risley, in particular, was unstoppable, notching a game-high 4 RBIs while also tallying 2 doubles. Pitcher Kolton Lyman delivered a solid performance on the mound, pitching 6 innings with 4 strikeouts and two earned runs.
Saturday saw the Eagles continue their winning ways with a dominant doubleheader sweep against Lake Land College. In the first game, a resounding 8-0 triumph, Risley continued his torrid streak with another home run, while Connor Woods joined the home run party as well. Addison Binnie and Dylan Davis contributed with doubles, while pitcher Andrew Carroll dazzled on the mound, tossing 6 innings of shutout ball with 7 strikeouts and just 5 hits surrendered.
In the second game of the double-header, Kirkwood faced a tougher challenge but emerged victorious with a gritty 6-4 win. Despite falling behind early, the Eagles rallied with a 4-run bottom of the 3rd inning and displayed consistent play throughout to secure the victory.
Sunday's action saw Kirkwood pick up right where they left off, starting the day against SWIC with a solid 3-1 triumph. Seth Winkler and Owen Ross showcased their offensive prowess, with Winkler blasting a double and Ross launching a homerun. Once again, Risley led the team with 2 RBIs and hits. Pitcher Jake Pembled delivered a strong performance on the mound, allowing just 2 hits and 1 earned run while striking out 5.
In the final game of the weekend, Kirkwood closed out with a 6-4 victory over SWIC, capping off a perfect weekend. Cal Sullivan added to the home run parade with a blast of his own, while Winkler and Ethan Bowers chipped in with doubles. Winkler led the team with 3 RBIs, followed closely by Sullivan with 2 of his own.
With their confidence soaring, the Eagles now set their sights on Winter Haven, FL, where they will continue their quest for success against a variety of opponents in warmer weather.
