EVANSVILLE, Ind.  — The Boomers, presented by Wintrust Community Banks, opened the season with a 4-3 loss in 10 innings to the Evansville Otters on Friday night.

Chris Sweeney hit a walk-off homer with one out in the bottom of the 10th against Jake Joyce to end the game. Schaumburg led early 1-0, collecting back-to-back hits in the top of the first from Justin Byrd and Jordan Dean. An error on a double steal allowed the first run to score. Evansville’s Josh Allen connected on a two-run home in the third to put the hosts ahead. The first three batters reached in the ninth as the Boomers rallied to tie the score. Mikal Hill drove home a run with a sacrifice fly and Byrd worked the count before notching a game-tying single to score Ino Patron. Schaumburg struck out 16 times in the game, matching a franchise record set in 2013.

Seth Webster worked six innings in the season debut, allowing just two runs while striking out four in a no-decision. The offense tallied seven hits with Byrd and Mark Nelson each picking up a pair. Nelson reached base four times in the defeat, which makred just the second opening night loss in team history.

The season opening series continues on Saturday night at 6:35 p.m. RHP Scott Schultz starts for the Boomers opposite Tyler Vail. Ensure your place in the fun at Boomers Stadium this summer by calling (847) 461-FOWL (3695). Hear all of the action on AM 1410 WRMN with the voice of the Boomers, Tim Calderwood.