Redbirds Look To Sweep Illini in Champaign

Image Courtesy of Illinois State Athletics

NORMAL, Ill. – The Illinois State University baseball team travels to Champaign, Ill. today to take on the Illinois Fighting Illini in the second game of a home and home series.

In their last matchup on March 31, the Redbirds secured a 4-1 victory over the Illini after battling the elements in a five hour and 25 minute contest.

ISU looks to get back in the win column after getting swept in a three-game weekend series at Murray State. The Redbirds have not won a game since April 11 when they defeated Indiana State at home.

Head Coach Steve Holm’s pitching staff looks to stay atop the Missouri Valley with a team ERA of 4.95. Six pitchers were used the last time the Redbirds played Illinois.

ISU will also look for continued production at the plate, focusing on the Bakes brothers Brayden and Ryan, who are hitting .360 and .302 respectively.  They also look towards Graham Mastros, who is hitting .348 with a team-high 34 RBI, and Camden Karczewski, who is .302 at the plate.

Getting the start today for the Birds is Thomas Harper.

The Birds and Illini will battle at Illinois Field, first pitch is set for 6:00. Tune into wznd.com for a broadcast of the game where Liam Lyons and myself have the call. Pregame will go live at 5:50 p.m.

For all things Redbird baseball, stay tuned to WZND.com.