Illini Central was not able to break out of their rough patch on Monday as the team picked up their fifth straight loss. They suffered a rough 15-5 defeat at the hands of the Lutheran Crusaders. The result was an unpleasant reminder to Illini Central of the 17-6 loss they experienced in the pair's previous head-to-head fixture back in March of 2023.
Avery Higdon was cooking despite his team's loss, scoring two runs while going 2-for-3. David Bard was another key contributor, going 1-for-2 with two stolen bases and an RBI.
On Lutheran's side, Alex Sullivan and Max Yenchko were a major factor while hitting and pitching. Throwing, Sullivan pitched three innings while giving up just two earned runs off six hits (he also didn't allow any walks). Meanwhile, Yenchko struck out six batters over two innings while giving up no earned runs off one hit (and only one walk). At bat, Sullivan scored three runs and stole a base while getting on base in three of his four plate appearances, while Yenchko scored two runs and stole two bases while going 2-for-4.
In other batting news, Michael Bergner was incredible, scoring a run and stealing a base while getting on base in all four of his plate appearances. Another player making a difference was Tad Andrews, who scored a run and stole a base while going 2-for-4.
Illini Central's defeat dropped their record down to 0-2.
Illini Central is on the road again on Tuesday to play St. Teresa at 4:30 p.m. As for Lutheran, they will look to defend their home field on Tuesday against Bunker Hill at 4:30 p.m.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
