Louisville Gets Revenge, Blasts WKU 16-5 in a Spectacular 7 Innings Play!
Louisville Cardinals Set a School Record in First Inning
Remember the extra innings clash a fortnight ago in Bowling Green between Louisville and WKU, which the Hilltoppers won 3-2? It was revenge night falling on 23rd April, 2024 as the Louisville Cardinals (24-16, 9-9 ACC) drubbed Western Kentucky University (29-13, 11-4 C-USA) with a striking 16-5 win in a momentous 7 inning showdown.
The Cards showed no mercy, scoring 13 spectacular runs in the bottom of the 1st. This record-breaking feat registered as the highest number of runs ever scored in a single inning by the prolific Cardinals team. The incredibly spectacular onslaught saw 9 batters fill the diamond before the Western could record a single out, leading to a euphoric grand slam by Gavin Kilen, who registered his 7th home run of the season.
WKU Calls for Bullpen Backup
The power-packed performance from Cardinals soon led the Hilltoppers to quickly call upon their bullpen after the grand slam. But Eddie King Jr. seized the moment by introducing the new arm with a blistering shot, recording his 5th long ball of the year.
Explosive Display in the 1st Inning Continued
While King Jr. was fearless with his bat, freshman Zion Rose was not left behind in the thrilling first innings. Rose sent a hard-hit line drive, marking his 4th home run of the season, bumping up the lead to an awe-inspiring 11-1.
Cards Come Out Stellar With Their Performance
King Jr. emerged as the star performer, leading the Cards with his magnificent 3 hits as part of a smashing 17 team-wide strikes. Gavin Kilen followed suit as the RBI leader with 4 runs. The showcase of team strength did not stop at the batters as six pitchers held the mound for Louisville in the 7 innings battle.
A Collective Effort on the Mound
Justin West (W, 1-0) took to the mound first and made his mark on this game by picking up his first collegiate decision. He pitched the first two innings, allowing one run and striking out 3 batters. Cardinals’ strategic play saw Colton Hartman (2 IP), Kayden Campbell (.2 IP), and Parkers Detmers (IP) each toss clean outings, while WKU did score a few runs off Carson Liggett (3 ER) and Ty Starke (ER). The prowess of the Cards was vindicated as their pitchers totaled 9 strikeouts in the 7 innings, allowing ridiculously low 4 hits and 3 walks.
Up Next: Cardinals vs. Clemson
Following the winning spree, Louisville is now gearing up for their home-game series against Clemson, the No. 5 team in the nation. Eager fans can expect another action-packed weekend at Jim Patterson Stadium with the first pitch scheduled for 6 PM on Friday.