BEAUMONT, Texas -- The Illinois baseball team's offseason lasted an extra 5:43 due to heavy rains, but that did not slow the Illini lineup. Illinois scored nine times in the first three innings against Milwaukee and cruised to a 10-2 win Friday in the season opener.
The Illini (1-0) jumped on top 5-0 after one inning and followed with one run in the second and three more in the third to build a 9-0 lead. Sophomore Jack Yalowitz had two hits and two RBIs in the first two frames and Bren Spillane smacked a three-run triple down the right field line in the third.
Yalowitz and freshman second baseman Michael Massey each had three hits and scored two runs to pace the offense. All nine Illinois' hits were by freshmen or sophomores.
Luke Shilling (1-0) picked up the win in his first collegiate start. The sophomore lasted five innings, allowing one run on three hits while striking out six. Shilling struggled to find the strike zone early, totaling six walks, but settled in as the Illini built their lead.
Matthew James was the first out of the bullpen and held Milwaukee scoreless through the sixth, seventh and eighth innings. He allowed just two hits and did not issue a free pass. Junior Jackson Douglas pitched the ninth and allowed one run to get to the 10-2 final.
Milwaukee (0-1) starter Adam Reuss was tagged with the loss. He allowed four hits and walked five in just two innings. The Panthers used six pitchers in the game, who combined for 10 walks.
Illinois is back in action tomorrow against Milwaukee and Lamar. The Illini's doubleheader will follow 40 minutes after the conclusion of Milwaukee and Lamar's 10 a.m. game.
