Preview: Illinois-Chicago at Missouri

COLUMBIA, Mo. (Interstat) — The surging Missouri Tigers look to continue their strong start when they host the Illinois-Chicago Flames in the second game of a three-game series Friday at Taylor Stadium.

First pitch is scheduled for 3 p.m. under cloudy skies with temperatures near 56 degrees.

Missouri (10-2) has won seven of its last eight games, including a three-game sweep of North Dakota State last weekend. The Tigers’ offense has been potent, scoring 10 or more runs in six games this season, highlighted by a 34-run outburst against Mount Saint Mary’s on Feb. 15.

Third baseman Chris Patterson, who drove in two runs in Saturday’s 5-3 win over North Dakota State, is part of a deep lineup. Relief pitcher PJ Green has been a reliable arm out of the bullpen, most recently throwing 2 1/3 scoreless innings in that victory.

Illinois-Chicago (4-6) aims to rebound after a 5-4 loss to Alabama A&M on Sunday and a series-opening loss to Missouri on Thursday. The Flames have shown flashes, including a series win at Sam Houston State from Feb. 20-22.

A key figure for the Flames is reliever Zack Millsap. Over his last three appearances spanning 5 1/3 innings, he has allowed no runs and just three hits while striking out five. He was sharp in Sunday’s loss, tossing three scoreless frames.

The Tigers hold a significant edge in early-season performance. According to Interstat projections, Missouri has a 62.1% probability to win Friday’s contest, with a simulated final score of 7-3.

Following this series, Missouri opens Southeastern Conference play at home against Auburn next weekend. Illinois-Chicago continues a road swing at Northwestern on Tuesday before its home opener next Friday.