Northwest Wayne News

Wayne State University's baseball team secured a 7-4 victory over Purdue Northwest, overcoming a two-run deficit with a decisive five-run rally in the seventh inning. The game took place in Detroit, with Wayne State improving their record to 27-18 overall and 16-11 in the GLIAC conference. Purdue Northwest fell to 17-26 overall and 7-20 in the conference.

The Warriors initially led with a two-run home run by Logan Van Sicklen, which brought Drew Hill across home plate. This marked Van Sicklen's fourth home run of the season. However, Purdue Northwest responded by scoring one run in the third inning, another in the fifth, and two more in the sixth to take a 4-2 lead.

In the bottom of the seventh inning, Wayne State capitalized on several opportunities. After Van Sicklen was hit by a pitch and Tony Hatzigeorgiou walked, CJ Maury reached base due to an error. Reagan Paulina then hit a ball off the first baseman's glove, allowing Van Sicklen and Maury to score and tie the game at 4-4.

Kyle Ray followed with a single, while Owen Tuccinardi walked to load the bases for Mason McGuire. McGuire's walk gave Wayne State a 5-4 lead. An error allowed Hill to reach base and bring home two more runs for additional insurance.

Griffin Kilander started on the mound for Wayne State but did not factor into the decision after pitching six innings and allowing four runs (two earned). Cam Rosen pitched three scoreless innings in relief, earning his second win of the season while lowering his ERA to 4.15.

The teams are scheduled for a doubleheader on Saturday at 1 p.m., continuing their series.