The University of Illinois Fighting Illini baseball team defeated Penn State 16-5 in a run-rule victory on Saturday, March 28, evening their series against the Nittany Lions.
The game saw Illinois score its highest number of runs in conference play this season. Regan Hall earned his second consecutive win as starting pitcher, while Kyle Schupmann led the offense with three hits, including his first home run of the year and four runs batted in. Collin Jennings contributed a grand slam during a two-hit day and Will Johannes added two doubles and four RBI.
The Illini opened the game by scoring four runs in the first inning. The offense continued to produce throughout, highlighted by Jennings’ grand slam in the fourth inning and Schupmann’s home run immediately after. Hall pitched five innings with eight strikeouts before Olivier Martel finished the game with two scoreless innings of relief.
Several players achieved personal milestones: Nick Groves extended his on-base streak to 37 games; Michael Farina scored multiple runs for the seventh time; Jack Zebig tied his season-high for runs scored; AJ Putty now leads the team with 33 RBI; Jennings hit his seventh home run and second career grand slam; Schupmann tied his career-high for hits and set a new season-high for RBI; Johannes recorded a career-high two doubles.
According to the official website, the University of Illinois Fighting Illini baseball program participates in both conference and non-conference games as part of its NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference schedule. The program offers student-athletes opportunities for competition, development, academic achievement, and operates within intercollegiate athletics at the University of Illinois.
This was Illinois’ first run-rule victory since April 22, 2025 at Indiana State and its first Big Ten run-rule win since April 13, 2025 against Indiana. The team’s next game is scheduled for Sunday morning against Penn State at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park.
