Box Score (pdf)

RICHMOND, Ky. – Eastern Kentucky University trailed 2-1 before Illinois State scored five runs over the final four innings to take the series opener, 7-2, on Friday at Earle Combs Stadium.
 
Game two of the series has been changed to Saturday at 12 p.m. 
 
The Colonels (3-11) took the lead in the bottom of the first on an RBI ground out from David Alvarez.  The Redbirds (8-5) tied it when Ryan Bakes led off the second with a home run to straight-away center field.
 
ISU broke the tie on an RBI fielder's choice off the bat of Josh Outlaw in the top of the fifth.  The visitor's late scoring push started with two runs in the sixth.  Nolan Barry brought home a pair with a single to left center to make it 4-1.
 
EKU scored a run in the bottom half of the sixth to stay within striking distance.  Silas Shaffer from home Khaleel Pratt with a single to shallow right field.
 
That is as close as the Colonels would get.  Illinois State tacked on one in the seventh and two more in the ninth.
 
Kobe Benson had a 2-for-4 game for EKU.  Pedro Moreno was 1-for-4 with a run scored.
 
Graham Mastros went 3-for-5 with two runs and two RBIs for the Redbirds.  Lucas Foley (4-0) pitched the final 4 1/3 innings, allowing one run on four hits and striking out six.