NIU Baseball Shatters Single-Game Scoring Record in 27-11 Victory Over Northwestern
EVANSTON, Ill. – In a dazzling display of offensive prowess, the Northern Illinois University (NIU) baseball team clinched a historic 27-11 victory against the Northwestern Wildcats on Tuesday, breaking multiple program records at Rocky and Berenice Miller Park. The Huskies set a new benchmark by scoring a staggering 27 runs and drawing 17 walks, both previously uncharted achievements for the team.
A Historic Performance
“It was all about shaking off a tough weekend at Ball State,” said head coach Ryan Copeland. “The guys really responded. Once we took the lead, we stayed relentless, and everybody was dangerous at the plate.”
This electrifying win not only marked NIU’s first victory over two Big Ten teams this year, but it also shattered their previous run record of 22, which was achieved back in 2000. With great enthusiasm, the team celebrated their second consecutive triumph over the Wildcats.
Record-Setting Grand Slams
One of the standout performers of the day was senior outfielder CJ Cepicky from St. Louis, MO. He made history by becoming the first Husky to hit two grand slams in a single game. In the second inning, Cepicky launched a bomb over the right centerfield wall, propelling NIU to a 5-1 lead. Later, in the seventh inning, he was called upon again with the bases loaded and delivered another grand slam, sealing the score at an astounding 27-10.
“I can’t believe it’s my first time hitting two grand slams in one game, especially against a Big Ten team,” said Cepicky. “This win shows how good we can be when we combine our pitching, hitting, and fielding all in one game.”
Game Progression: An Offensive Barrage
The game started with the Huskies leading 5-2 after just two innings, but things escalated quickly in the third. JP Gauthier was hit by a pitch, setting the stage for an explosive inning. Andrew Smart then hit a single, allowing Gauthier to reach second base. Shortly after, Ben Loyd doubled to left field, sending both runners home and extending the lead to 7-2.
The momentum didn’t stop as Cooper Cohn added another double, bringing in Loyd and propelling the lead to 8-2. The inning continued to flow favorably for NIU, culminating in a three-run homer from Logan Gregorio, which put the score at 12-2.
By the end of the fourth inning, the Huskies had already accumulated a commanding 16-2 lead, and their onslaught continued into the sixth, where six additional runs added to their total. Charlie Parcell capped off the inning with a three-run double, thereby notching five RBIs on the day.
A Balanced Attack
What’s most compelling about this game is that every single hitter contributed. Eight out of the nine members in the batting lineup registered RBIs, with Parcell achieving a career-high four hits and five RBIs. Gregorio also matched this feat, securing his 14th homer of the season. Not to be outdone, Loyd ended his day 2-for-2, walking three times, scoring four runs, and accumulating four RBIs of his own.
From a pitching perspective, Danny Cihocki started things off on the mound with 3.2 innings pitched, surrendering five runs, while Mason Ruh came in and sealed the victory with 1.1 scoreless innings to earn the win.
Looking Ahead: Next Challenges
As the dust settles on this historic day, the NIU Huskies remain focused on their upcoming challenges. They will open a three-game Mid-American Conference series against the Akron Zips on Thursday, April 17, at Ralph McKinzie Field at Walt and Janice Owens Park. Mark your calendars for a 3 p.m. first pitch!
For more exciting updates and in-depth coverage of NIU athletics, be sure to check out the official NIU Athletics Website.
—NIU—
