McLean County Times

Illinois State University emerged victorious in their I-74 rivalry matchup against Bradley University on Tuesday. The Redbirds secured a 6-3 win over the Braves at OSF Healthcare Field, part of the Louisville Slugger Sports Complex.

The game was tied at 3-3 in the seventh inning when senior Bella Wilkerson hit a decisive two-out, bases-loaded double to left field. This play gave Illinois State (8-23, 2-5 MVC) the lead they needed to defeat Bradley (14-17, 4-3 MVC).

Wilkerson's performance was crucial, as she went 1-for-4 with a double and three RBIs. Other notable contributions came from Delainey Bryant, who went 2-for-4 with one run scored, and Bella Atkinson, who contributed an RBI single in the second inning.

Pitcher Paige McLeod started for Illinois State, allowing six hits and three runs over 4.2 innings. Hannah Meshnick earned the win by pitching 2.1 scoreless innings in relief.

Illinois State took an early lead with a run in the second inning and added two more in the third. Bradley responded by tying the game with runs in the fourth and fifth innings. However, Wilkerson's clutch hit broke the tie in favor of Illinois State.

Following this victory, Illinois State will host UIC for a three-game series starting Friday at Marian Kneer Stadium.

For updates on Illinois State Softball, fans can follow them on Twitter (@RedbirdsSB), Instagram (@redbirdsoftball), and Facebook (Illinois State Redbird Softball). More information is available on GoRedbirds.com and through the Illinois State Redbirds App.