MONTGOMERY, Ala. – University of Southern Indiana Baseball opened the 2025 campaign with a 3-1 victory over Alabama State University in Montgomery, Alabama. USI is 1-0 to start the season, while Alabama State is 0-1 to begin its season.
USI grabbed a 1-0 lead in the top first when junior third baseman Patrick McLellan singled through the right side to score senior centerfielder Khi Holiday from third. Holiday had moved into scoring position after singling to lead off the game, stole second, and advanced to third on a ground out.
After Alabama State tied the score in the bottom of the second, USI senior leftfielder BJ Banyon put the Eagles back into the lead, 2-1, after stealing third and scoring on a throwing error in the top of the third. The Eagles added to lead in the sixth when freshman third baseman Kannon Coakley scored on a passed ball for the eventual 3-1 final.
On the mound, USI junior right-hander Blake Kimball picked up the win after going six innings. Kendall allowed one run on five hits, one hit, and one walk, while striking out one.
USI sophomore right-hander Aaron Rubio closed out the final three innings to earn his first save as an Eagle. Rubio threw three innings, setting down all nine hitters, striking out two.
Up Next for the Eagles:
USI continues the four-game series with Alabama State Saturday with a 1 p.m. doubleheader in Montgomery, Alabama.
The Eagles open the 2025 home schedule by hosting Western Kentucky University Tuesday. First pitch is scheduled for 4 p.m. and the first 200 fans get a USI red rally towel.
