Softball is on the road 🚗 as they take on Illinois this weekend🌟………Ohio State Softball Hits the Road to Face Illinois in Crucial Big Ten Showdown
May 1, 2025 | Columbus, OH — by [Your Name]
The Ohio State softball team is packing their bags and heading west as they prepare for a pivotal weekend series against Big Ten rival Illinois. With postseason implications hanging in the balance, the Buckeyes are set to face the Fighting Illini in a three-game road stand that could define their regular season run.
Currently sitting in the middle of the Big Ten standings, Ohio State (29-17, 11-9 Big Ten) is looking to strengthen its position ahead of the upcoming conference tournament. The series, which begins Friday evening in Champaign, presents an opportunity for the Buckeyes to build momentum and assert themselves as a contender for the conference title.
“This is a big road trip for us,” said head coach Kelly Kovach Schoenly. “Illinois is always a tough opponent at home, and we know we’ll need to bring our best softball. But I believe in our team’s preparation, toughness, and chemistry. We’re ready.”
Buckeyes Finding Their Rhythm
Ohio State enters the series on the heels of a strong showing last weekend, having taken two of three games against Purdue in Columbus. Sophomore pitcher Madison Greene delivered a standout performance in the series finale, throwing a complete game with seven strikeouts and just two earned runs. Her consistency in the circle has been key for the Buckeyes all season.
Offensively, the team has found a rhythm behind junior infielder Ashley Prange and freshman sensation Kailey Hixon. Prange, who leads the team in home runs and RBIs, has been a steady presence in the heart of the lineup, while Hixon’s recent surge at the plate—including a clutch three-hit game against Purdue—has added depth and danger to the Buckeyes’ batting order.
“We’re starting to put it all together,” said Prange. “It’s about trusting the process and having each other’s backs. Road games are always a challenge, but they also bring us closer as a team.”
Scouting the Illini
Illinois (25-21, 10-10 Big Ten) is not a team to be taken lightly. The Fighting Illini are coming off a competitive series against Michigan State and have shown resilience throughout the season. Led by veteran head coach Tyra Perry, Illinois features a balanced attack with experienced hitters and a strong pitching duo in junior Payton Durette and freshman Taylor Montgomery.
Their lineup is anchored by senior outfielder Autumn Pease, who is batting .331 with 34 RBIs and nine home runs on the season. Illinois thrives on aggressive base running and timely hitting—traits that could test Ohio State’s defensive discipline.
“This is going to be a battle,” said Coach Schoenly. “We’ve emphasized fundamentals all week in practice. In games like these, the little things—bunt defense, smart baserunning, clutch hitting—make all the difference.”
Road Warriors Mindset
While home-field advantage is always preferred, the Buckeyes have shown they can win on the road. They hold a 9-6 record in away games this season and have adopted a “road warriors” mentality fueled by unity and focus.
“It’s not about where we play, it’s about how we play,” said senior catcher Hannah Bryan. “We’ve grown a lot this season, and road trips like this one bring out the best in us.”
The team traveled to Champaign on Thursday and held a light practice to acclimate to the conditions. Game one is scheduled for Friday at 6 p.m. ET, followed by a Saturday afternoon matchup and a Sunday series finale.
Postseason Implications Loom Large
With just two weekends remaining in the regular season, every game carries weight. A strong showing against Illinois could boost Ohio State’s seeding in the Big Ten Tournament and strengthen their case for an NCAA Tournament bid.
“There’s a lot on the line, but that’s what makes it exciting,” Coach Schoenly said. “We’re embracing the challenge.”
As the Buckeyes hit the road this weekend, all eyes will be on their performance in Champaign—where grit, execution, and team unity could make all the difference……. See more 👇👇👇
