Lincoln-Way West narrowly defeated cross-town rival Lincoln-Way Central 4–3 in a varsity baseball game on Wednesday afternoon at West High School.
According to the match details, the Knights took an early lead in the top of the third inning. Conor McCabe hit a single down the right field line, bringing in one run. This was followed by Shawn Mowry drawing a bases-loaded walk, increasing their lead to 2–0.
The Warriors responded with a strong performance in the fifth inning. Conor Essenburg initiated the rally with a two-run double that tied the game. Ian Hazelip then contributed with an RBI single, and Jackson Mansker completed the inning with another run-scoring hit, giving West a 4–2 advantage.
Essenburg also played a key role as a pitcher, securing the win by pitching five innings and allowing five hits and two runs. He recorded nine strikeouts and three walks. Tyler Bartley finished the game to earn the save for West. Meanwhile, Central’s Liam Arsich took the loss after giving up four runs (three earned) over four and two-thirds innings.
Essenburg concluded his performance going 2-for-3 with two RBIs. Filippo Baratta led Lincoln-Way Central by going 2-for-2 from the leadoff position. McCabe and Mowry each contributed one RBI for Central.
The teams are scheduled to face off again on Friday at Lincoln-Way Central.