Illinois Field | University of Illinois Fighting Illini
Illinois Field | University of Illinois Fighting Illini
Illinois baseball team claimed a 5-2 victory over Bradley in a midweek matchup at Dozer Park, improving their record to 26-16. In Peoria, the Illini's pitching staff delivered a solid performance, with Ryan Daly setting the pace by pitching four shutout innings, conceding just one hit and striking out four batters. Sam Reed, who tossed a scoreless inning, earned the win, enhancing his season to 3-0. Jake Swartz, Reed Gannon, and Mitch Dye contributed to the defense with scoreless efforts, with Dye securing his first save of the season.
Outfielder Collin Jennings provided offensive support, going 2-for-5 with a run, a double, a home run, and five RBIs. His performance included a three-run home run in the fourth inning, his 11th of the season. Vytas Valincius also added to the team's offensive efforts with his 2-for-3 performance, while Nick Groves walked three times.
The game began with Illinois taking an early lead. Groves drew a walk and advanced when Cameron Chee-Aloy reached on an error, setting the stage for Jennings' two-run double. The first four innings saw strong performances from Illini pitchers, with Daly leaving after four innings and Reed following with a clean fifth.
Bradley responded in the sixth inning, narrowing the score to 5-2, but Illinois’ defense prevented further damage. Swartz and Gannon maintained control through the seventh and eighth innings, and Dye closed the game with a perfect ninth inning.
Next, the Fighting Illini will resume Big Ten play with a three-game series against Rutgers, starting Friday at Bainton Field.
The game featured several notable performances, including Jennings' career-high five RBIs, Daly's standout four-inning outing, Dye's first career save, and Groves reaching 30 walks this season. Despite his strong contributions, Jack Zebig's on-base streak ended at 36 games. Overall, Illinois' pitchers faced 33 opponents from Bradley, yielding only nine ground balls and six fly balls while achieving ten strikeouts. The Illini also drew eight walks from Bradley's pitching staff.
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