News Summary
Michigan State University defeated Eastern Michigan University 3-1 in a crucial baseball match, marking a significant series win. Despite challenging weather, MSU’s strong pitching and defense helped secure the victory. Aidan Donovan was the winning pitcher, while EMU’s offense showed resilience with Ty Stecko getting on base multiple times. The match highlighted EMU’s strong performance even in defeat, as they allowed only three runs to the Spartans. Looking ahead, EMU prepares for the next series against Central Michigan University.
East Lansing, Michigan – Michigan State University (MSU) secured a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Eastern Michigan University (EMU) on May 6, 2025, denying EMU a series sweep but ensuring an overall series win. The game took place at Jeff Ishbia Field at McLane Baseball Stadium, under damp and dreary weather conditions, which tested both teams’ resilience.
MSU’s Aidan Donovan was named the winning pitcher after going two innings and allowing just one run, while EMU’s Emmett Gillies was charged with the loss in his first career start. Gillies pitched two innings, giving up one run on two hits, along with one strikeout and one walk. MSU’s Dominic Pianto earned a save for his team, following a strong defensive performance by the Spartans.
In a week packed with games for the Spartans, their win was crucial, especially with EMU’s strong pitching performance that limited MSU’s batting to a .143 average with runners in scoring position. This marks a significant moment for EMU, as their staff of seven pitchers combined to allow only two earned runs. Ty Stecko was a standout from EMU’s offense, getting on base in three out of four plate appearances through a hit and two walks.
The scoring commenced in the bottom of the second inning when MSU took the lead with a sacrifice fly, putting them up 1-0. The Spartans extended their lead in the third inning, with a triple that allowed a runner to cross home plate from second base, bringing the score to 2-0. EMU responded in the fourth inning, capitalizing on defensive errors from MSU to narrow the gap to 2-1. The game then shifted into a pitcher’s duel with no runs scored from the fifth through the seventh innings, further intensifying the match-up.
In a crucial moment for MSU, they added an insurance run in the eighth inning via another sacrifice fly, pushing the score to 3-1. EMU subsequently attempted to mount a comeback in the ninth inning, loading the bases with two runners on, but were ultimately unable to score, concluding the game at 3-1.
This match was notable as it marked the 142nd meeting between the two teams, with EMU now on a six-game losing streak against the Spartans. Additionally, EMU’s performance was significant historically, as it was the first time since 2019 that they limited a Power Four opponent, such as MSU, to three runs or less.
Looking ahead, EMU is set to return to Mid-American Conference (MAC) play with a series against Central Michigan University from May 9-11, 2025. This upcoming series will provide EMU with another opportunity to strengthen their record and build momentum after a challenging game against MSU.
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