Chambana Sun

Illinois baseball secured a decisive 15-5 victory over Northern Illinois in their weekend series opener at Illinois Field. The win marked the team's 11th in their last 13 games, improving their season record to 18-13.

Coltin Quagliano led the Illini's offensive charge, going 2-for-4 with two runs scored, a double, a home run, and five RBIs. Jacob Schroeder contributed with a perfect 3-for-3 performance at the plate, scoring three runs and driving in three more. Ryan Moerman also delivered a strong showing with three hits, including a home run.

Pitcher Jack Crowder earned his second win of the season after throwing six innings, allowing four runs on four hits while striking out three. Evan Clark provided solid relief with one shutout inning.

Northern Illinois initially took a 2-0 lead with solo homers in the first inning. However, Illinois responded with seven runs in the second inning and maintained control for the remainder of the game. The Illini added to their lead with home runs from Moerman and Quagliano in subsequent innings.

Reed Gannon closed out the game by striking out the side in the ninth inning. The teams will face off again tomorrow at Illinois Field.

Jacob Schroeder has been on an impressive streak, hitting safely in 12 of his last 13 games and raising his batting average significantly during that period. Other notable performances included Brody Harding's third three-hit game of the season and Cameron Chee-Aloy's extended hitting streak to 13 games.

The Illini demonstrated strong offensive capabilities throughout the game, out-hitting Northern Illinois by a wide margin and capitalizing on opportunities with runners in scoring position.