Ball State Falls to Central Michigan in MAC Opener

The Ball State baseball team opened its Mid-American Conference schedule and home slate with an 8-7 loss to Central Michigan on Friday afternoon at Shebek Stadium [1]. The Chippewas rallied from a late deficit to secure the victory in the series opener, which was the first meeting between the two teams this season [1, 2].

Key takeaways

• Central Michigan won the series opener 8-7 after scoring four runs in the eighth inning [1].
• Ball State held a 3-0 lead through three innings but could not hold off the Chippewas' late offense [1].
• The series continues with games scheduled for Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m. [1].
• Ball State entered the weekend with a 5-6 record following a 1-0 shutout win at Hawaii [2].

Chippewas overcome early deficit

The Cardinals jumped out to a 3-0 lead after three innings, but Central Michigan chipped away before taking the lead for good in the eighth [1]. Trailing 7-4, the Chippewas loaded the bases and scored four runs, capped by a two-run single from senior Cole Prout that gave them an 8-7 advantage [1]. Prout also hit a two-run homer in the seventh inning, finishing with four RBIs [1].

Central Michigan's bullpen secured the win after starter Hayden Bailey lasted just 2 2/3 innings [1]. Liam Stumpf earned the victory by escaping a jam in the eighth, and Max Hammond recorded his first career save with a scoreless ninth [1]. Ball State pitcher John Chambers took the loss [1]. The Chippewas also faced adversity when starting third baseman Greg Guzik II