Chambana Sun

Illinois baseball team secured an 8-6 win over Indiana State at Illinois Field, concluding their five-game homestand. The Illini's record now stands at 11-7, while Indiana State is at 9-12.

Jack Zebig played a pivotal role, going 3-for-4 with three runs, a home run, three RBI, and a walk. Vytas Valincius and Collin Jennings also contributed with two-hit performances each. Jacob Schroeder added to the scoreboard with a home run.

Jake Swartz claimed the victory from the bullpen for Illinois. He pitched one inning, allowing two runs on two hits and striking out two batters. Evan Clark, Zach Bates, Luke Weber, and Reed Gannon each delivered scoreless innings in relief. Gannon closed the game with a shutout ninth inning to earn his first save of the season.

The game began with Indiana State taking an early lead after hitting a home run and scoring an unearned run in the first inning. However, Illinois responded strongly in the second inning with six runs that gave them a lead they maintained throughout the game. Coltin Quagliano doubled home Jennings and scored on Nick Groves' RBI-single. Grant Ross followed up with a sacrifice fly before Zebig hit a three-run homer to make it 6-2.

Both teams scored in the third and fourth innings; Schroeder's solo homer and Valincius' RBI-single were key for Illinois. Indiana State managed to close the gap to 8-6 in the fifth inning before Illinois' bullpen held firm for four scoreless innings to secure the win.

Zebig has been on form recently, having homered in consecutive games for the first time this season and totaling eight RBI over his last two games. Valincius has been consistent as well, recording hits in 16 of 17 games this season and driving in runs across seven straight games.

Illinois' performance saw every starter reach base safely as they out-hit Indiana State 12-9. The Illini capitalized by going 3-for-9 with runners in scoring position while limiting Indiana State to no hits from eight attempts in similar situations.