The Terps posted just four hits Sunday.
Maryland baseball was dominated in every aspect Sunday, as Illinois showcased its explosive offense and solid pitching. It jumped out to an early lead and maintained control throughout, while the Terps struggled to find any rhythm both offensively and defensively.
In what was another tough outing, Maryland was handed an 11-0 loss by the Fighting Illini. The contest was called after seven innings due to the 10-run mercy rule — the Terps’ second time falling to a mercy rule this weekend.
Illinois made their presence felt in the first inning, jumping out to a 5-0 lead. The Terps’ defense fell early, committing a fielding error that allowed Illinois to capitalize early. Greg LaChance doubled down left field, scoring Cameron Chee-Aloy. This was followed by a double to right-center field, scoring LaChance.
The Terps’ difficulties continued, as starting pitcher Jake Yeager struggled to settle in. Illinois took advantage of a hit-by-pitch on Kyle Schupmann, which put runners on first and second. A fielding error loaded the bases, and a three-run RBI double by Jacob Schroeder pushed Illinois’ to 5-0 lead.
On offense, Maryland couldn’t crack Illinois pitcher Regan Hall, who shut it down throughout the game. The Terps were unable to string together any solid hits or make productive contact, and by the fourth inning, Illinois extended their lead to 6-0 on a wild pitch.
Despite getting a few runners on base, Maryland couldn’t capitalize in scoring situations, with Illinois’ defense continuously turning up the heat, turning double plays and recording key strikeouts to shut down potential rallies.
Illinois increased its lead in the following innings. In the fifth inning, Chee-Aloy singled to center field, scoring Schroeder and extending the lead to 7-0. The game was already coming to a close by the sixth inning, but Illinois’ bats remained hot; a groundout from Coltin Quagliano increased the lead to eight.
By the seventh inning, Illinois’ offense was firing on all cylinders, adding another three runs to its tally. A three-run homer by Jennings in the bottom of the seventh sealed the deal.
“It’s been a tough week starting Tuesday with a tough loss [to UMBC] and this weekend,” head coach Matt Swope said. “The guys are in the right mind frame, they’re trying, everyone is trying, we’re working really hard.”
Three things to know
1. Series sweep. With the loss, Maryland fell in all three games of the series. The Terps were unable to find their rhythm on either side of the ball, as Illinois dominated throughout the weekend.
2. Offensive struggles. Maryland’s offense was stifled throughout the game, failing to register any significant offensive threats. It couldn’t string together scoring opportunities, especially with seven strikeouts and just four hits.
3. Defensive mistakes. The Terps’ defense had several mishaps, including an early fielding error that allowed Illinois to extend its lead. Maryland’s inability to execute plays added to the mounting pressure throughout the game.