TOPEKA, Kan. – Blake Freeman was a triple short of the cycle Friday evening, but the NSU bullpen allowed nine runs to cross home plate in the eighth inning as they dropped a 12-9 contest at Washburn. 

The Ichabods' first three batters reached in the eighth, sending 13 to the plate in a forgettable frame.  Northeastern State (9-9. 3-4 MIAA) entered the inning carrying an 8-3 lead after scoring four in the top half of the frame.  

The RiverHawks threatened in their final at-bats, scoring one run and getting the tying run at the plate. 

Freeman homered for the 17th time in his career and hit his 58th double to lead off the contest.  Brayden Rodden had three hits, and Ty Van Meter plated a pair of runs. 

Seth Stacey struck out five batters throwing 117 pitches in seven innings. 

Washburn had 15 hits and won its 13th consecutive game to improve to 14-7 (7-0 MIAA)

The series continues Saturday at 2 p.m.