Mike Williams Associate Athletic Director/Communications | Illinois State University Athletics Website
Mike Williams Associate Athletic Director/Communications | Illinois State University Athletics Website
Illinois State University claimed victory over the University of Illinois Chicago in a closely contested baseball game, winning 8-7 on Friday night at Les Miller Field. The Redbirds managed to fend off a late rally by UIC to secure the win.
The Redbirds, now with a record of 25-22 overall and 13-9 in the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC), were led offensively by senior Auggie Rasmussen and sophomore Luke Lawrence. Both players went 2-for-5 and drove in three runs each.
UIC's record fell to 31-15 overall, including 14-8 in the MVC and an impressive 17-5 at home for the season.
In the early stages of the game, UIC took an initial lead with two runs in the first inning. However, Illinois State responded strongly with a six-run second inning. This offensive burst was highlighted by two-run home runs from redshirt junior Judah Morris and Rasmussen.
UIC narrowed the gap with a run in the fourth inning before Rasmussen hit his second home run of the night in the fifth, extending Illinois State's lead to 7-3. Lawrence contributed further with an RBI double in the sixth inning, although UIC countered with a solo home run during their turn at bat.
Despite scoring three runs in their final inning attempt, UIC's comeback effort was halted as junior Joe Husak secured two crucial outs to seal Illinois State's win and earn his sixth save of the year.
Notable performances included Lawrence extending his on-base streak to 33 games following a double in the second inning. Senior Cameron Mabee made his thirteenth start of the season for Illinois State, pitching six innings and recording seven strikeouts. Rasmussen now leads his team with fourteen home runs this season.
This victory marks Illinois State's first win over UIC in Chicago since 2004. The series between these teams will continue on Saturday at Curtis Granderson Stadium.
For updates on Illinois State Baseball, fans can visit GoRedbirds.com or follow them on social media platforms such as Twitter (@RedbirdBaseball) and Instagram (isuredbirdbaseball).
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