East Michigan News

Despite a strong performance from senior outfielder Logan Hugo, the Eastern Michigan University baseball team fell to Kent State University in a closely contested Mid-American Conference game on Friday, May 16. The final score was 6-5 at Oestrike Stadium in Ypsilanti, Michigan.

Hugo contributed significantly with two home runs and four RBIs, going 2-for-4 at the plate. Senior pitcher Drew Beckner started for EMU, pitching six innings and allowing four runs on seven hits while striking out six.

Kent State took an early lead with a run in the first inning. They extended their advantage to 3-0 by the third inning and added another run in the fifth. EMU responded with Hugo's three-run homer in the bottom of the fifth to narrow the gap to 4-3. Brendan Kleiman tied the game for EMU with a single in the sixth inning.

In the seventh inning, Hugo hit his second home run of the day, giving EMU a brief 5-4 lead. However, Kent State regained control in the ninth inning with two more runs to secure their victory.

The loss leaves EMU needing a win against Kent State on Saturday or hoping for Central Michigan University's defeat against Toledo to secure a spot in the MAC Tournament.

"After the result, the Eagles' record shifted to 20-28 (12-17 MAC) while Kent State's improved to 36-16 (22-7 MAC)."

"Every Eagles starter reached base safely in the loss."

"The game marked the Eagles' 19th with multiple home runs."

"Hugo knocked two home runs for the fifth game in his career and third time this season."

Eastern Michigan will face Kent State again on Saturday, May 17 at Oestrike Stadium. A win would clinch their place in postseason play for the first time since 2018.