Eastern got its fourth win against an in-state opponent this season as the Panthers hammered their way to a 12-8 win over Western Illinois University.

Every Eastern starter except for one had a hit, a RBI and a run scored as the Panthers (15-18) tagged three Lumberjack pitchers for 16 hits and 11 runs entering the final inning.

“We are swinging the bats better lately and Aaron Shelbourne hit the ball really well today,” Eastern manager Jim Schmitz said.

Western Illinois (11-20) made a ninth inning rally after a bases loaded walk cut the lead to four, but was able to get a ground out to third to seal the Panthers victory.

Shelbourne led the Panthers at the plate as the senior first baseman went 4-for-5 with three runs and two RBI’s including his eighth home run of the year.

In the top of the sixth, Eastern found itself down 6-4, but staged a rally and never lost the lead. Catcher Bret Pignatiello doubled down the left field line scoring the lead off hitter, second baseman Chris Uhle, and the flood gates opened. Right fielder Kirk Walters got a RBI single that scored shortstop Kyle Haines and the designated hitter, Nolan Cork, finished off the sixth inning scoring with his sacrifice fly.

In the eight inning, Eastern took advantage of a bases loaded situation to plate three runs and build a comfortable lead for the pitching staff. Schmitz was surprised at how the runs came in bunches for the Panthers Tuesday.

“That’s a good sign because we’ve normally lost games by giving up the big inning,” Schmitz said.

Schmitz wanted to use another mid-week game to allow his newcomers on the mound more game experience. Freshman Mike Budde started on the hill and lasted three innings giving up four runs on five runs and earning a pair of strikeouts.

“Mike pitched better than his stats look,” Schmitz said. “By getting it over the plate, he accomplished everything we asked him to do.”

Junior Andy Kuntz came in relief and lasted only 2 and 1/3 of an inning. The Bloomington native gave up three runs off six hits. An underclassmen was able to pick up the win as sophomore Jason Pinnell got his second career win by throwing 2 and 1/3 scoreless innings allowing only one hit.

“We brought in Pinnell when we needed him and he did a great job,” Schmitz said.

Eastern’s next action will be a crucial three-game series as the Panthers travel to Cape Girardeau, Mo. to compete with Southeast Missouri State University.