Trojans Look to Sweep Struggling Leathernecks

MACOMB, Ill. (Interstat) — The Arkansas-Little Rock Trojans will go for a series sweep of the Western Illinois Leathernecks in a Sunday afternoon matchup on April 5, 2026, at Alfred D. Boyer Stadium.

The Trojans (19-12) have taken the first two games of the series, including an 8-5 victory on Saturday, and are heavy favorites against a Western Illinois squad mired in a difficult season at 6-21.

A key figure in the series has been Arkansas-Little Rock right-hander Brigden Parker. The pitcher to watch dominated the Leathernecks on Saturday, throwing five hitless innings in relief with one earned run and five strikeouts to earn the win. Over his last four starts, Parker has been exceptional, allowing just three hits and one earned run over 23 innings pitched.

Western Illinois will look to salvage the finale behind Cade Sonoqui. The pitcher to watch for the Leathernecks took the loss on Friday, allowing two earned runs over 4 1/3 innings. He has struggled for consistency, with his last win coming on March 21.

The Trojans’ offense was powered Saturday by shortstop Jerdy Lopez, who went 3 for 5 with two RBIs. Western Illinois’ Gage Hoover also had three hits and two RBIs in the losing effort.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, Arkansas-Little Rock is projected to win 8-3.

Following the series, the Trojans travel to face Arkansas on Tuesday before a conference series at SIU Edwardsville. Western Illinois begins a road series at Lindenwood next Friday.

First pitch is scheduled for 1 p.m. CDT.