Both teams had to adapt to high winds and cold temperatures, but head coach Jake Boss Jr. said he was pleased with his team’s composure.

"Any win is a good win," Boss said. "The conditions weren't great, the wind was tough, the temperature was not easy, but that's part of playing in the north. Defensively, I’m not very pleased. We kicked it around a bit too much tonight, but apart from that, we're pretty productive at the plate, so it's a good night.”

Redshirt senior Sam Busch stayed hot at the plate, going 3-for-4 with a walk, three RBIs and two runs. He’s recorded a hit in five straight games, batting 10-for-20 in that span.

Sophomore second baseman Ryan McKay also had a strong day at the plate. With the game tied 1-1 in the third, McKay blasted his fourth home run of the season to give MSU a 2-1 lead. The Spartans never trailed again.

McKay said having a year under his belt has helped him in a variety of situations this season. 

"Having a year under my belt in the college atmosphere, being really comfortable with where I am, trying to play loose and have fun, is what's helped me the most."

Freshman Aidan Donovan made his seventh start of the season and delivered one of his best outings yet. The right-hander tossed five innings, allowing two earned runs on three hits with three strikeouts. Donovan escaped several late-inning jams to keep MSU in control.

"Aiden was great, we put him in some tough spots defensively, because we kicked it all over the place early, and he made pitches to get out of it," Boss said. "He's started off pretty good. I think he's got a really bright future ahead of him, and so we're excited about him."

A six-run third inning broke the game open for the Spartans. McKay’s leadoff homer was followed by singles from Busch and Caleb Berry. Parker Picot then launched a fly ball over Western Michigan center fielder Cooper Hums for his fourth triple of the year, leading the team and tying for first in the Big Ten.

A throwing error and two more singles brought home three additional runs, giving MSU a 7-1 lead.

The Spartans scored at least one run in every remaining inning, including two each in the seventh and eighth.

In the eighth, with MSU leading 12-4, catcher Noah Bright singled and Sokolove walked to put runners on first and second with one out. A wild pitch advanced both runners, and pinch hitter Isaac Sturgess drew a walk to load the bases.

Busch followed with a single to right field, driving in two runs to end the game via run rule.

MSU will host Ohio State this weekend in a pivotal Big Ten series. The Buckeyes sit at the bottom of the standings with just two conference wins, but Boss said his team will be ready.

"They'll be focused, it's why you come to Michigan State to play," Boss said. "We love playing at home, we love playing conference games, especially at home. We'll be ready to go this weekend, no question about it, that's not a concern at all."

Friday night’s game is set for 6 p.m. and will stream live on Big Ten Plus.