Box Score EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (13-10, 6-5) suffered 20–5 loss to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater (21-3, 9-0) at Carson Park on Monday. Despite the defeat, UW-Eau Claire managed to score three runs in the fourth inning, marking its most productive frame of the game.

UW-Whitewater took control in the seventh inning with a five-run surge, effectively swinging the momentum in their favor. A combination of timely singles, a sacrifice fly, and a costly error led to the decisive change.

Earlier, UWEC had built a steady advantage, highlighted by a productive second inning. Will Johnson's single and Austin Curti's walk set the stage for Kellen Smith's RBI single. Smith's aggressive baserunning allowed Curti to score on a throw, adding another run to the tally. In the fourth, Brayton Thillman's double further increased the lead, with the Blugolds capitalizing on errors for unearned runs.

Despite these strong moments, the Blugolds' bats went quiet as UW-Whitewater's offense surged. The final innings saw missed opportunities, including runners left on base and a pickoff in the sixth. Ultimately, UW-Eau Claire's early efforts were overshadowed by UW-Whitewater's late-game rally.

Nicholas Meuser led the pitching efforts for the Blugolds with a solid 5 2/3 innings, striking out eight batters while allowing six hits and three earned runs. Despite issuing four walks and hitting three batters, Meuser managed to keep the game within reach, throwing 100 pitches with 57 strikes. Sebastian De la Toba relieved Meuser, pitching 1 1/3 innings and allowing four earned runs on four hits. The pitching staff faced challenges throughout the game, with Jack Drange giving up five earned runs in one inning, and Ty Sagedal surrendering two earned runs in just 2/3 of an inning. Harrison Esau closed the game with a brief appearance, throwing just one pitch.

Will Johnson scored twice and collected two hits, demonstrating his impact on the game. Austin Curti crossed home plate twice and drew a walk, contributing to the team's offense. Kellen Smith recorded one run, one hit, and one RBI, while also earning a walk and being hit by a pitch. Nicholas Meuser pitched 5 2/3 innings, striking out eight batters, despite allowing three earned runs.

Game two was delayed due to inclement weather following the first inning. The game will be made up at a later date that has yet to be determined.

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