DECATUR, Ill. – The Blueboys split Monday's non-conference doubleheader against Millikin University, powered by strong pitching at Workman Baseball Field in Decatur.
IC dropped the first game of the doubleheader 2-1 but bounced back with a 12-3 win to split the series.
With the split, IC moves to 12-7 on the season, while Millikin now sits at 10-7.
Game 1: Millikin 2 IC 1
The Blueboys played solid defense but struggled offensively in a 2-1 loss to Millikin. They managed just three hits, with
Logan Schweigert scoring their lone run in the third inning off a
Connor Hennemann RBI.
Pitcher
Dawson Vernier delivered 5.1 strong innings, allowing two runs on seven hits while striking out three. Reliever
Connor Akstulewicz recorded two quick outs to keep IC in the game. Despite a clean defensive performance, IC couldn't solve Millikin's O'Donnell, who pitched a complete game.
Game 2: IC 12 Millikin 3
IC bounced back in Game 2 with a dominant 12-3 victory over Millikin. The Blueboys exploded for 16 hits, breaking the game open with a six-run eighth inning.
Adam Passmore and
Louie Bartletti each collected three hits, while
Jon Tate drove in three runs, including a clutch hit with the bases loaded.
On the mound,
Branson Shaw started strong with three innings of one-run ball, and
Anthony Buonaura earned the win with three scoreless frames in relief. The Blueboys' pitching staff held Millikin to just six hits while striking out eight.
Up Next
The Blueboys return home to Joe Brooks Field on Saturday for a conference doubleheader against Grinnell College, with first pitch scheduled for 12:00 p.m.
