Husker baseball team looking to get back on track this weekend for three game series against Illinois

Despite being just a half game back out of first place in the Big 10 conference standings, Nebraska have underperformed in their recent stretch of games, having lost three of their last four.

There are several reasons that could explain Nebraska’s offensive woes as of late, but for freshman infielder Spencer Schwellenbach, the Huskers simply haven’t performed well enough at the plate with runners in scoring position. “Before, we would put together five hits in a row or so and get six runs in an inning,” Schwellenbach said. “We haven’t been able to get that big (of an) inning in a couple of weeks.”

Having not played a home game since April 16 is likely one of the factors that have contributed to Nebraska’s offensive struggles. Being back at Haymarket Park this weekend for a three game series could give Nebraska the boost it needs. It may not matter much though, as according to NU head coach Darin Erstad, llinois are “probably one of the most well rounded teams” that the Huskers have faced in 2019.

Ranked No. 23 in the RPI, the Illini will pose a formidable challenge to Nebraska. Although their 6-6 record in conference play might not reflect their talent level accurately, Erstad says there aren’t many weaknesses in their team.

“At the plate, you look up and down the lineup and it’s like ‘where are the outs at?’” Erstad said. “So we’re going to have to play very well and it should be a good challenge for us.”

With four series remaining, the Huskers are in the home stretch of their season. With Indiana ahead of them and Michigan just behind them in the conference standings, Nebraska can’t afford to have many slip ups. However, the Huskers are dialed in and focused on winning the Big 10 conference crown for the second time in three years.

“The biggest thing for us is we want to win the Big 10 championship,” Schwellenbach said. “It all starts with this weekend.”

(Photo – Kenny Larabee)

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