Chambana Sun

Illinois baseball team secured a series win against Valparaiso by splitting a doubleheader at Illinois Field. The Illini, now with a record of 10-7, faced off against the Beacons, who hold a 4-11 record.

In the first game, Valparaiso defeated Illinois 13-10. The Beacons took an early lead, but solo home runs by Vytas Valincius and Kyle Schupmann put Illinois ahead briefly. Valparaiso then scored 12 consecutive runs over two innings. Despite a late rally with home runs from Schupmann and Cameron Chee-Aloy, along with scoreless relief pitching from Payton Hutchings, Nolan Girard, and Mitch Dye, Illinois fell short.

Schupmann had an impressive performance in the first game with three hits, including two home runs. "Kyle Schupmann went 3-for-5 with three runs scored, two home runs and three RBI," noted the game summary.

In the second game of the doubleheader, Illinois rebounded to defeat Valparaiso 14-4. Collin Jennings initiated scoring for Illinois with a solo home run in the second inning. Regan Hall pitched effectively for six innings to earn his first quality start of the season. Jack Zebig's grand slam in the seventh inning sealed the victory for Illinois.

Zebig's contribution was significant as he "went 1-for-1 with two runs scored, a home run, five RBI and three walks." Every Illinois starter reached base safely during this game.

The Illini out-hit their opponents in both games and showed resilience throughout the series. This non-conference matchup marked their final series before moving into conference play.