After a three-game series in Florida, it’s not exactly a vacation for the Fighting Illini.
Illinois returned to USF with a 1-2 record, losing 11-10.
Amid the excitement of opening night, Illinois hit its first home run from junior transfer Michael Farina. Two points later, the Fighting Illini led 3-0; that would be the last time they held the lead before the South Florida Bulls decided to take over.
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The Illini won 4-2 in Game 2 after losing 9-4 in the first game. The two teams got off to a slow start and were tied at 2-2 entering the 10th inning. Will Johannes hit the game-winning home run to score two runs and seal the victory.
The team’s momentum seemed to be building as they entered the series finals with a 7-4 lead through the first five innings. Illinois struck out 12 times to USF’s 3; it only makes sense that the Fighting Illini can defend the plate and prevent their opponents from getting on base.
However, the Bulls took control in the closing stages, finishing with 11 points to win by one.
It’s just the beginning of the season, and Illinois still has plenty of time to figure out what works best for the team. Many freshmen and transfers have had a full season to figure out their spots on the team. Ike Young made his college debut in the final game of the series but still hasn’t really shown off his talent. He faced just seven batters and allowed just four runs in total.
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The Illini still have some work to do, but they still approach the remainder of the season with unwavering belief and high expectations.
Statistics filler
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In the final game of the series, Nick Groves was dominant with three runs.
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Johannes led the team with two home runs.
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Regan Hall totaled six strikeouts throughout the series.
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Farina totaled 11 assists and five points.
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Next
Illinois will take on the Butler Bulldogs at Illinois Stadium on Tuesday at 3:30 pm live on B1G+.