West Liberty University split their four game weekend series against Alderson Broaddus University 2-2, losing their first game 10-3, winning the second game 4-2, winning the third game 10-9, and finally losing the fourth game 13-3. The Hilltoppers performed well with some standout individual oplay from sophomore Ty Helmke.

What a phenomenal weekend it was for Helmke, regardless of the outcomes. In the first game, Helmke was able to find a home run swing, and although the score was not to West Liberty’s advantage, it proved to be a bright spot nonetheless. In game two, Helmke yet again sent a moonshot to centerfield, resulting in a three run homerun. He even came in-clutch again in games three and four with home runs in each, cementing an impressive four game home run streak for Helmke.

Individual successes aside, West Liberty looked strong in games three and four. Following a loss in game one, WLU needed a strong performance from their pitching staff to salvage a game, and that staff delivered. Ian Brady, who has seen success with the Hilltoppers this season, picked up his fifth win this year, striking out two and only giving up two hits. It was the top of the fifth inning which proved to be enough to capture the win for WLU, as back to back home runs by Helmke and Campbell broke the game wide open. The Toppers went on to win by the final score of 4-2.

Game three was certainly more of a barn burner then not. Logan Grimm of West Liberty picked up the victory and looked rather impressive doing so, striking out eight and walking only three. Although West Liberty’s bats were at full force, their bullpen late in the game made it interesting, to say the least. Colton Coss’s 4 RBI proved to be huge for West Liberty, who ultimately secured the victory 10-9 after a late surge from Alderson Broaddus late.

With West Liberty now positioned one game under .500 at 13-14, they still look up at Wheeling University, who owns the MEC North Division lead as it stands. There are only a handful of games remaining as the season begins to dwindle, so it is important that the Hilltoppers play their best baseball then they have the entire season. For an up-to-date schedule, visit Hilltoppersports.com.