Marian Kneer Stadium | Illinois State University Athletics
Marian Kneer Stadium | Illinois State University Athletics
The Illinois State baseball team is set to face Valparaiso for a three-game series from April 4-6. The Redbirds have won three of their last five games and currently hold a record of 12-15 with a 4-2 standing in the Missouri Valley Conference. Matches are scheduled to take place at Valparaiso, with Friday’s game kicking off the series at 3:00 PM followed by games on Saturday and Sunday at 1:00 PM. All games are available for viewing on ESPN+.
Valparaiso stands at 7-17 overall and 2-4 in conference play, notably achieving a recent victory against Milwaukee in midweek competition with an 8-6 score. Historically, Illinois State leads the series against Valparaiso with a record of 29-15-1, having swept last year's series at Duffy Bass Field with scores of 11-1, 3-1, and 6-0.
Under the leadership of Steve Holm, since 2019, the Redbirds have a road record of 30-36 in MVC play and stand at 3-4 when playing at Valparaiso. The previous series in Valparaiso in 2023 concluded with Illinois State taking two of the three games, overcoming an initial loss with a 30-13 run differential over the last two outings.
In their recent games, the Redbirds secured a series win against Murray State with a significant rally, posting an eight-run inning to eventually win 13-10 during a doubleheader on March 29. Daniel Pacella played a crucial role, notably delivering a two-RBI single for a decisive lead.
As of April 2, Illinois State ranks fourth in the MVC for batting average and fifth in team ERA. Daniel Pacella holds impressive individual standings, including a .393 batting average and a shared top spot for home runs within the conference.
Illinois State is also preparing to host the Missouri Valley Conference Championships from May 20-24, marking the first time since 2019 that the event will be held at Duffy Bass Field.
After the series against Valparaiso, the Redbirds will return to host the University of Illinois on Tuesday at 5 PM. For more updates, fans can follow Illinois State Baseball on their official website and social media platforms.
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