WINTER HAVEN, Florida – The Illinois College baseball team opened its spring break trip in Florida with a doubleheader split against Saint Mary's University (Minn.). The Blueboys secured a 6-2 victory in Game 1 but fell 9-0 in Game 2.
With the split, Illinois College moves to 2-3 on the season, while SMU starts its campaign at 1-1.
Game 1: IC 6 SMU 2
Louie Bartletti got the scoring started early for the Blueboys, launching his first home run of the season in the opening inning. SMU responded with a run in the bottom half of the frame, but Illinois College quickly regained control, adding two more runs in the second and never looking back.
Jack McGuire earned his first win of the season, tossing five innings while allowing two earned runs and striking out five. The Blueboys used just two pitchers in the game, with
Branson Shaw closing it out to pick up the save.
Game 2: SMU 9 IC 0
SMU wasted no time in Game 2, putting up three runs in the first inning and maintaining control throughout. IC starter
Anthony Buonaura went three innings, surrendering three earned runs while striking out five.
The Blueboys struggled offensively, managing just two hits—a double from
Adam Passmore and a single by
Nathan Walker. Walks proved costly, as IC issued 10 free passes in the contest.
Up Next
Illinois College returns to action in Florida on Monday, March 3, facing Albion College at 9:00 AM.
