Chambana Sun

Illinois baseball team secured a 5-3 victory over Northwestern at Illinois Field, marking their fifth consecutive win. Jack Crowder led the team with a strong performance on the mound, improving his record to 3-1 for the season. He pitched 6.2 innings, allowing three runs, two of which were earned, and struck out seven batters.

The Illini's offense was powered by Camden Janik and Jacob Schroeder. Janik went 3-for-4 with a double and an RBI, while Schroeder contributed with a home run and two RBIs. Connor Milton also added to the scoreboard with two hits and an RBI.

Northwestern took an early lead with a single and a home run in the first inning but Illinois responded quickly. Schroeder hit a solo home run in the second inning to cut the lead to one, followed by Janik's RBI single in the third that tied the game.

Crowder managed to retire 14 consecutive Northwestern batters after conceding hits to the first two hitters. The Illini took control in the fourth inning, scoring three runs to take a permanent lead.

Despite Northwestern scoring again in the fifth inning, Crowder maintained Illinois' advantage by pitching a scoreless sixth inning. In relief, Ben Plumley and Joe Glassey combined efforts to keep Northwestern from scoring further, securing Glassey's fourth save of the season.

The game concluded with Illinois improving their Big Ten record as they continue their winning streak at home.