Chambana Sun

Illinois baseball faced a setback in their series finale against UCLA, with the game ending 8-4 at Illinois Field. The Illini's performance was led by Jack Zebig, who went 3-for-5, scoring a run and an RBI. Drake Westcott contributed with one hit, two RBIs, and three walks.

Relief pitcher Mitch Dye delivered two scoreless innings, striking out three batters.

The Bruins took an early lead of 3-0 after the second inning and extended it to 8-0 by the fifth. Illinois responded in the seventh inning with four runs. Vytas Valincius secured an RBI on a fielder's choice followed by Zebig’s RBI-single. Westcott then hit a single into right-center, bringing home two more runs.

Despite placing runners on the corners in the eighth inning, Illinois could not capitalize further and ultimately fell short of closing the gap in the ninth inning.

Looking ahead, the Fighting Illini are set to play their final Big Ten series of the season against Ohio State starting Thursday in Columbus, Ohio.

Key highlights from this game include Zebig’s three-hit performance marking his fifth such game this season. Westcott achieved a season-high with three walks. Dye marked his eighth scoreless outing this season. Despite leaving 13 runners stranded on base, Illinois pitchers held UCLA to just one hit in seven opportunities with runners in scoring position.

The Illini were swept at home for the first time since March 2017 when they faced Michigan State.