Redbirds Open Conference Play With Belmont Challenge

Luke StulgaNORMAL, Ill. – The Illinois State baseball program is set to open conference play as it hosts Belmont in a three-game series beginning on Friday, March 20, at Duffy Bass Field.

The Redbirds begin Missouri Valley Conference play in 2026 after recording a 15-12 record last season. The win total marks the first time in program history that Illinois State has tallied 15 or more wins in league play.

Last season, the Redbirds captured two wins in a three-game set to secure the regular-season series before Belmont defeated Illinois State 7-3 in the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament in Normal last May. Since the Bruins joined the MVC, the Redbirds have led the series 13-11, while the…