Lincoln-Way West’s baseball team faced a narrow defeat on Monday, losing 3-2 to Bradley-Bourbonnais after a decisive two-run home run in the seventh inning.
According to the game details, Lincoln-Way West maintained control for most of the match, supported by strong pitching and early offensive plays. Jackson Mansker initiated scoring with a solo home run in the second inning, followed by Conor Essenburg’s significant hit to center field in the third, which gave the Warriors a 2-1 lead.
Essenburg also excelled as a pitcher, striking out nine batters and allowing no earned runs over four innings. Reliever Kellen Schulte managed to keep Lincoln-Way West ahead until Bradley-Bourbonnais’ Cody Freitas hit a two-run homer with two outs in the seventh inning, changing the game’s outcome.
Despite their loss, Lincoln-Way West demonstrated resilience both offensively and defensively. Essenburg achieved a perfect 2-for-2 at bat and led the defense alongside catcher Owen Weber, who successfully handled 13 chances without error. The Warriors did not commit any errors during the game.
The team’s pitchers collectively struck out 13 players and limited Bradley-Bourbonnais to five hits. With a record of 10-5, Lincoln-Way West aims to recover in their upcoming game against Downers Grove North on Wednesday.