The Leatherneck offense came alive in the third, stringing together key at-bats to push across five runs and take an early lead. Tyler Large had a key two-run single followed by a Matt Olive double the next at bat scoring Large to highlight the third inning for the offense. However, Alabama State answered back with a four-run fourth inning, briefly making it a one-run game.

But WIU would have an immediate response. In the top of the fifth, they loaded the bases for Alexander, who came through with a huge double down the left field line, clearing the bases and extending WIU's lead to 9-5. The Junior finished 2-for-5 with three RBIs on the night.

On the mound, Jason Buhl was lights out in relief, stopping the Hornets momentum and picking up the win. The senior lefty entered in the fourth inning and dominated, tossing 3.2 innings while allowing just one run on five hits. He struck out six and walked two, keeping Alabama State's bats in check. Buhl's steady presence allowed WIU to maintain control and cruise to victory.

The Leathernecks tacked on two more runs in the sixth, giving the bullpen plenty of breathing room. Eric Rawlings closed things out with two scoreless innings to seal the win.

With the victory, WIU improves to 2-5 on the season, showing off both their offensive firepower and pitching depth. Alexander's big swing and Buhl's dominance out of the bullpen highlighted a strong team performance, and the Leathernecks will look to go for the sweep tomorrow afternoon against Alabama State. First pitch is at 1 p.m.