Chambana Sun

Illinois will host DePaul and Northern Illinois for two midweek softball games at Eichelberger Field in Urbana. The games are set to take place on April 22-23, with Illinois facing DePaul on Tuesday at 4 p.m. and Northern Illinois on Wednesday at 5 p.m. Both games will be broadcast on B1G+.

Several Illinois freshmen have shown promise this season, with four players hitting home runs. Ella Cushing achieved a pinch hit grand slam against Central Michigan, while Ava Moore, Ellie Haggard, and Keirys Click have all contributed significant homers against various opponents. Nine Illinois players have homered this season.

Illinois' Yazzy Avila has been hit by a pitch 10 times this season, tying for seventh place in the program's records for a single season. Keirys Click was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Week for her performance in the series win over Michigan State, hitting two home runs among other contributions. Stevie Meade continues to be a key figure in the lineup with a near-record for sacrifice hits.

The Illini have shown strength in hitting triples, with five players recording at least one triple this season. The team has already tied for the 11th most triples in a season in program history. Catcher Paige Berkmeyer has caught 40 runners stealing, placing her third in the school's record books. Senior pitcher Lauren Wiles ranks sixth in appearances and eighth in starts in Illinois history.

Illinois recently lost 7-3 to Purdue, despite notable performances from Keirys Click and Ella Cushing. Looking at their upcoming opponents, DePaul has a record of 14-27, with standout performances from Lydia Ettema and Baylee Cosgrove. Northern Illinois has a record of 17-23, with Jenna Turner and Danielle Stewart making significant contributions.

Illinois welcomed 13 newcomers in the offseason, including notable additions Lizzie Stiverson and Karley Yergler. The team is noted for its youth, with 17 underclassmen.

Head coach Tyra Perry is one of 21 Black female head coaches in Division-I softball, representing Illinois in the Big Ten. The Illini are set to participate in historic matchups and are accompanied by assistant coach Kirsten Verdun, a notable alum of DePaul.

Several players earned preseason honors, including Ava Moore, Ellie Haggard, and London Park. Returning players Paige Berkmeyer and Adisyn Caryl were recognized on the Big Ten Players to Watch list.

Last season, Illinois finished with a 21-31 record. Key losses include Kelly Ryono and Tori McQueen, who were vital to the team's performance.