Central Arkansas began its home baseball schedule with a 5-4 win over Northwestern State University at Bear Stadium on Friday. The Bears improved their season record to 3-2, while the Demons dropped to 4-1.
The game opened with Central Arkansas taking an early lead in the second inning after Casey Shipley doubled and scored on a single by Zeb Allen, aided by a throwing error. In the fourth inning, Allen hit a three-run home run that brought in Kade Seldomridge and Shipley, pushing the Bears ahead 4-0.
Northwestern State responded in the fifth inning with a solo home run from Davis. Central Arkansas countered quickly as Jack Runsick doubled to drive in Mark Ross, extending their lead to 5-1.
The Demons narrowed the margin in the sixth inning when Johnson hit a two-RBI double, making it 5-3. Northwestern State added another run in the eighth via a bases-loaded walk but could not complete the comeback.
Hunter Alexander secured the win for Central Arkansas by striking out three consecutive batters in the ninth inning. Denver Hamilton was credited with the win after pitching six innings, allowing seven hits and three earned runs while striking out two. Alexander recorded his save with 1 1/3 scoreless innings without giving up any hits and striking out three.
For Northwestern State, Carter White took the loss after pitching five and one-third innings, surrendering seven hits and five earned runs along with six strikeouts. Bryce Leonard pitched two scoreless innings in relief for Northwestern State.
Zeb Allen led Central Arkansas offensively with three hits—including a home run—and four RBIs. Jack Runsick contributed one hit (a double), one RBI, and six assists defensively. Casey Shipley added two runs, two hits (including a double), supporting Central Arkansas’s offensive efforts.
Central Arkansas will continue its series against Northwestern State on Saturday with game one of a doubleheader scheduled for noon at Bear Stadium.
