Spartans Let Another Lead Slip, Fall to Michigan 6–4 in Game Two

Michigan State struck first and pushed late, but another blown lead proved costly as the Spartans fell 6–4 to in-state rival Michigan in game two of the Big Ten series at Jeff Ishbia Field at McLane Stadium. With the loss, the Spartans drop to 11–21 overall and 5–12 in Big Ten play, sitting 14th in the conference standings—still outside the Big Ten Tournament picture if the season ended today. In many ways, it was a stark contrast to yesterday’s game.

This time, starting pitcher Carter Monke could not contain the Wolverines’ offense when it mattered most. Monke falls to 3–3 on the season after pitching three innings, allowing five runs on nine hits and one walk. He did record four strikeouts, but Michigan broke things open in a decisive third inning.

Through the first two innings, Monke looked in control. He allowed just one hit, one walk, and one hit-by-pitch, holding the Wolverines scoreless and keeping Michigan State in a good early position. But the third inning quickly unraveled—and in dramatic fashion.

The inning had the feel of a horror show, as Michigan sent nine hitters to the plate and plated five runs. Monke surrendered five singles, a double, and a three-run home run to Greg Pace Jr. , his second of the series.