Illinois halts skid, blows out Western Illinois

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — It’s been a roller coaster ride for Illinois this season.

After getting swept by USC over the weekend, Illinois was able to bounce back Tuesday with a landslide 21-8 win over Western Illinois at Illinois Field.

Starting in the bottom of the first, the Fighting Illini were behind by one run until Illinois outfielder Collin Jennings hit a three-run homer, leading to a 5-3 advantage.

The Illini’s momentum was briefly halted in the second inning as they were unable to make it around the bases. They gained the adrenaline back in the sixth inning, though, racking up five runs. AJ Putty, who has been having a standout season, started the chain reaction.

With the game already in the bag, new faces were able to make it into the rotation. Ike Young started for the first time in his career, with a season-high of four strikeouts and two innings pitched.

As head coach Dan Hartleb continues to curate the ideal team setup with the different dynamics, there is still more time for Young to make more appearances in more innings. It would be a waste of potential if Illinois doesn’t take advantage of Young’s skills on the mound.

While a home victory was able to boost the team morale, the Illini must be able to hold their own when facing teams in their conference if they want a fighting chance at the championship.

With another Big Ten series with Minnesota coming up, they will be tested on their ability to compete with a tougher team.

Staff stuffers

• Both AJ Putty and Will Johannes amassed eight putouts.
• Nick Groves went three for four at bat.
• The team had a season-high of 13 strikeouts.

In case you missed it

Up next

Illinois will be hosting Minnesota for a Big Ten series starting Friday at 6 p.m.

All three games can be seen on B1G+/