Chambana Sun

Illinois baseball secured a 4-3 win against Ohio State in the series opener at Bill Davis Stadium. The Illini, with a season record of 28-22 and a conference record of 13-15, faced off against the Buckeyes, who are currently at 12-36 overall and 4-24 in the conference.

Tyler Schmitt played a pivotal role for Illinois by pitching seven innings, allowing two runs on six hits, and striking out five batters. This performance marked his fourth quality start of the season, bringing his personal record to 5-2. Zach Bates also contributed significantly by earning his eighth save of the year.

Jack Zebig and Nick Groves both contributed an RBI each during the game. Kyle Schupmann's hit in the ninth inning resulted in what would become a decisive run for Illinois.

The game's progression saw Ohio State initially take the lead with a solo home run. Zebig tied it up for Illinois with a sacrifice fly in the third inning. Ohio State quickly regained their lead but were kept scoreless through four innings due to Schmitt's effective pitching.

Illinois leveled again at 2-2 when Cameron Chee-Aloy scored following an error in the sixth inning. The team then took their first lead in the eighth after Groves singled to bring Grant Ross home.

In an eventful ninth inning, two Ohio State outfielders collided while attempting to catch Schupmann's fly ball, allowing him to complete a little league home run that extended Illinois' lead.

Mitch Dye started on the mound for Illinois in the ninth but was replaced by Bates after consecutive singles from Ohio State players threatened their advantage. Although Ohio State managed one more run through a sacrifice bunt, Bates secured three outs to finalize Illinois' victory.

The Fighting Illini will continue their series against Ohio State tomorrow at Bill Davis Stadium with another game scheduled for 2 p.m. CT.