Chambana Sun

Illinois softball faced challenges at the Black and Gold Classic, dropping two games on Saturday. The Fighting Illini's record fell to 1-3 for the season. CSU Bakersfield improved to 2-3, while UCF moved up to 3-1.

In the first game, Illinois lost to CSU Bakersfield with a score of 4-0. Danika Frazier made her debut as a starting pitcher, allowing two runs over 4.1 innings and recording one strikeout. Relief pitchers Megan Nuechterlein and London Park also contributed. Despite loading the bases in the fourth inning, Illinois was unable to score any runs.

The Roadrunners scored first in the second inning and doubled their lead in the fifth inning. Illinois failed to make a comeback, resulting in a shutout loss.

Notably, Ellie Haggard and London Park made their collegiate debuts during this game. Zoie Howard led Illinois offensively by going 1-for-2 at bat.

In their second game of the day against UCF, Illinois suffered another defeat with a final score of 2-1. Karley Yergler pitched a complete game but took the loss after allowing two runs on five hits while striking out four batters. Yazzy Avila performed well offensively with a triple among her two hits.

UCF secured an early lead with one run in the opening frame and extended it further in the fifth inning. In response, Illinois attempted a rally in their last chance at bat but only managed one run before being stopped by UCF's defense.

The Fighting Illini are scheduled for a rematch against UCF on Sunday at noon, which will be broadcasted on ESPN+.

Illinois wore orange jerseys for both games but remains winless when donning this attire so far this season.