Sangamon Sun

The Illinois College baseball team has been ranked sixth in the Midwest Conference Preseason Coaches' Poll, according to an announcement by the league. The Blueboys, led by Head Coach Jacob Waddle, are coming off a 21-15 season and will see eight starters return for the upcoming year. Notable players returning include Adam Passmore, Ryne Mapes, and Louie Bartletti. Bartletti was recognized as a second-team All-MWC selection last season with a .356 batting average and 11 home runs.

Illinois College's offense proved to be formidable last year, finishing second in batting average within the conference and maintaining low strikeout numbers. On the pitching side, key returners such as Jack McGuire, Anthony Buonaura, Charlie Lardi, and Branson Shaw will bolster their efforts on the mound. McGuire had four wins last season over 59 innings pitched.

The team also welcomes transfers Nick Williams from Lewis & Clark CC, Alex Loman from John Wood CC, and Sean Raffa from Lewis & Clark. Williams is expected to contribute significantly both offensively and defensively. Loman provides strong defensive skills behind the plate with a .989 fielding percentage.

Cornell College was selected as the preseason favorite in the conference poll with 44 points and two first-place votes. Lawrence University followed closely with 36 points and three first-place votes. Beloit College and Ripon College tied for third place.

The top four teams at the end of regular play will compete in the MWC Baseball Tournament scheduled for May 9-10, vying for an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.