#9 Eagles Split Home Opener With Southwestern

Cedar Rapids, IA- The 9th-ranked Kirkwood Eagles opened their home campaign with a bang, splitting a doubleheader against the Southwestern Spartans. 

In the first game, the Eagles wasted no time in asserting their offensive dominance. Miles Risley, Owen Ross, Alex Ritter, and Bronx Lewis all went yard against the Spartans, with Lewis sealing the deal with a grand slam, the first at home this season. Jackson Payne delivered a stellar performance on the mound, pitching a complete game and limiting the Spartans to just two hits while striking out five. The Eagles cruised to a 13-1 victory, ending the game in the bottom of the fifth inning.

However, the momentum didn't carry over to the second game. While Kirkwood started strong with two runs in the first inning, they struggled to maintain their offensive rhythm. Ethan Bowers added to the home run count in the first inning, but despite multiple hits from Bowers, Campidilli, and Cal Sullivan, Kirkwood fell short, unable to mount a comeback after the second inning. The Spartans took the second game 8-4.

Looking ahead, Kirkwood remains focused on their next challenge in ICCAC play against Northeast, with a three-game series awaiting them on the road this weekend. The Eagles are eager to bounce back and continue their pursuit of success in conference play.