The LeMoyne-Owen baseball team showcased resilience and determination in a high scoring conference series against Kentucky State University, ultimately earning a hard fought series victory at home. After dropping the opener 20 to 12, the Magicians regrouped and responded with back to back wins, taking game two by a score of 5 to 4 and closing the series with a thrilling 9 to 8 victory.
Game one featured an explosive offensive showing from both teams. LeMoyne-Owen collected 11 hits and drew 10 walks, consistently putting pressure on the Kentucky State pitching staff. Cedric Poellnitz II and Cameron McDonald led the charge with multiple hits, while the Magicians capitalized on free passes to generate scoring opportunities throughout the game. Despite the offensive success, a decisive 10 run seventh inning by Kentucky State proved to be the difference, as the Magicians were unable to recover late.
LeMoyne-Owen answered in game two with a much more controlled and efficient performance. The Magicians limited mistakes defensively and took advantage of Kentucky State miscues to secure a 5 to 4 victory. The Thoroughbreds committed five errors in the contest, and LeMoyne-Owen capitalized by manufacturing runs in key moments. Cedric Poellnitz II continued his strong series with two hits including a double and an RBI, while Kevin Maya contributed by reaching base multiple times and helping maintain offensive pressure. The pitching staff delivered when it mattered most, holding Kentucky State scoreless over the final three innings to preserve the win.
The series finale delivered one of the most exciting games of the season. LeMoyne-Owen tallied 12 hits in the 9 to 8 victory, showcasing a balanced offensive attack from top to bottom. The Magicians answered multiple Kentucky State rallies with timely hitting of their own, refusing to allow momentum to slip away. Key contributions came from across the lineup, as LeMoyne-Owen consistently found ways to get runners on base and bring them home in clutch situations.
Across the final two games, Poellnitz II emerged as a major offensive force, going 4 for 8 with a double, two RBIs, and strong situational hitting. Maya reached base several times and continued to impact the game in multiple ways, while Cameron McDonald added three hits across the series. The Magicians also showed discipline at the plate and aggressiveness on the bases, combining timely hitting with smart baserunning to keep pressure on the defense.
LeMoyne-Owen's ability to bounce back after a difficult opening loss highlighted the team's growth and competitive edge. The Magicians executed in high pressure moments and showed composure in close games, a promising sign as conference play continues.
The Magicians will now shift their focus to their next conference series on April 3 and 4, as they travel to Mobile, Alabama to face Spring Hill College. Game one is scheduled for April 3 at 5:00 p.m., with games two and three set for April 4 at 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. With confidence building and momentum on their side, LeMoyne-Owen is poised to carry this energy into their next challenge.
