Murray State Baseball secured a series victory against Southern Illinois with a 7-5 win, powered by Connor Chisolm’s four-hit performance that included two triples, according to an April 26 announcement.
The outcome is significant for the Racers as it marks a hard-fought road win in Carbondale. Head coach Dan Skirka said, “Anytime you can come into Carbondale and win a series, that’s a tall task. Really proud of the guys and the fight they had to come out here on a Sunday winner-take-all.”
Chisolm matched his single-game career high with four hits and drove in three runs. His achievement was notable as it was the first time since March 2022 that a Racer recorded multiple triples in one game. Skirka said of Chisolm, “He set the table for us. When he goes, we go. Sometimes it’s by walk, sometimes it’s by single, and today the two triples is huge, but when he’s getting on in front of those other guys, that’s when we have a chance to put up some crooked numbers.”
The Racers started strong with an early lead before Southern Illinois responded quickly in the first inning. Chisolm’s triple in the second helped Murray State regain control by driving home two runs; he added another RBI triple later to extend their advantage.
Southern Illinois tied the game late before Murray State reclaimed the lead in the ninth inning through key plays from Kristofer Hokenson and Kainen Jorge. Dylan Zentko earned the win after pitching scoreless relief innings while Drew Deremer started for Murray State and Reese Oakley contributed from the bullpen.
Looking ahead, Murray State aims to maintain its momentum as it prepares to host Memphis at Johnny Reagan Field on Tuesday.
