GREENVILLE, S.C. — The Illinois baseball team lost both games of their doubleheader at Fluor Field on Saturday. Game one lasted nine innings, ending 6-5 in Ohio State's favor. The first game was originally scheduled to be a seven-inning contest. The second matchup was then adjusted to a seven-inning game, which Ohio State won 12-6.
Sophomore Cam McDonald made a big impact on Saturday. McDonald was a combined 4-for-9 with a double, four RBIs and two runs. Junior Taylor Jackson also had a solid day, going 4-for-8 with a double, a walk and a pair of runs. In game one, Jackson had a crucial leadoff double to start the eighth inning with the score tied.
Sophomore Kellen Sarver produced in game two with a 2-for-4 performance, including a double, RBI and two runs. Sarver drove in the first run of the game in the afternoon contest.
Freshman RHP Riley Gowens made his Illinois debut in game one. He tossed 3.1 innings, allowing three runs on six hits, while striking out four and walking two. Gowens has missed the previous two seasons with an injury.
Illinois will look to rebound tomorrow against Ohio State in the series finale. The Illini will send freshman LHP Cole Kirschsieper to the mound who went 3-0 with a 1.35 ERA a season ago.
