Illini Baseball Promotional Schedule Announced

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - The University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics announced a full slate of marketing promotions for Illinois baseball home games at Illinois Field in 2024.

The 14th annual Bleacher Bum Barbecue, the premier promotion for Fighting Illini baseball, will be held Friday, May 3, when Illinois hosts Ohio State at 6 p.m. CT. The event has been a staple on the Illini schedule, as the previous 11 editions have drawn average crowds over 2,000 to Illinois Field, including an all-time high of 5,214 in 2009. The 2024 Bleach Bum Barbecue will also feature a post-game fireworks show.

Nine Innings of Winning will take place on Saturday, April 20, when Illinois hosts Northwestern at 4 p.m. CT. One or more prizes will be raffled off each inning. A definitive list of prizes will be released at the beginning of April.

For the 10th time, the Fighting Illini will wear special commemorative jerseys as part of Honor and Serve Day at Illinois Field. The event, which is designed to honor University of Illinois student veterans and all of America's military heroes, including those serving the Champaign-Urbana community, will be held on Saturday, May 4, when Illinois hosts Ohio State at 3 p.m. Full details and this year's commemorative jerseys will be unveiled at a later date.

Illinois Field will also feature several recurring promotions all season long. Bring your furry friend every Tuesday and Sunday for Dog Days, with a special Bark in the Park collar tag giveaway on April 21. Food Truck Fridays return for a second season and will feature local food tuck options during Friday home games. Tuesday home games will feature $2 draft beers. A kid's zone will be open each Sunday with kid's inflatables open beginning 30 minutes prior to first pitch. 

There will also be happy hour drink specials from gate open to first pitch for all home games.

RIGHT FIELD PATIO RENTAL: The patio outside right field is available for rent this season. The space features two pads, which can be reserved separately or together. Midweek rates are $50 for one pad or $75 for both, while weekend series costs are $100 per pad and $175 for two. Fans are encouraged to bring their own chairs and tents, and a picnic table will be provided. Food and beverage packages also available. 

Baseball cards will be given away in four sets:
» Set 1 - TBA
» Set 2 - April 14
» Set 3 - April 23
» Set 4 - May 4

Notable dates:
» St. Patrick's Day (March 17)
» Baseball Movie Day (March 30)
» Jackie Robinson Day (April 14)
» Greek Life/Student Night (April 16)
» 9 Innings of Winning (April 20)
» Bark in the Park (April 21)
» Most Valuable Professor (April 23)
» Bleacher Bum BBQ (May 3)
» Honor & Serve Day (May 4)
» Senior Day (May 11)
» Mother's Day (May 12)

All games will be held at Illinois Field. Game dates, times, giveaways and promotions are subject to change.