Missouri Tigers Defeat Illinois in Braggin' Rights Baseball Matchup

Tigers use strong pitching and early offense to take down Illini 5-1

Mar. 25, 2026 at 4:20pm

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The Missouri Tigers baseball team defeated the Illinois Illini 5-1 in the annual Braggin' Rights game played at CarShield Field in St. Louis. Missouri jumped out to an early 4-0 lead in the first inning and used five pitchers to limit Illinois to just one run, stranding 15 Illini runners on base.

Why it matters

The Braggin' Rights game is a long-standing rivalry between the two schools, with the winner claiming bragging rights for the year. Missouri's victory extends their recent dominance in the series and keeps them in the hunt for a strong postseason push.

The details

Missouri scored four runs in the first inning, with Cameron Benson reaching on an error that brought in two runs and freshman Blaize Ward adding a two-run double. PJ Green made the start for the Tigers, working three scoreless innings, while Keyler Gonzalez earned the win with 2.1 innings of relief. The Missouri bullpen held Illinois in check the rest of the way. The Tigers added an insurance run in the sixth on a sacrifice fly by Jamal George.

  • The game was played on Tuesday, March 25, 2026.
  • Missouri will face Lindenwood on Wednesday, March 26, 2026.

The players

Cameron Benson

A Missouri Tigers player who reached on an error that brought in two runs in the first inning.

Blaize Ward

A freshman Missouri Tigers player who hit a two-run double in the first inning.

PJ Green

The Missouri Tigers starting pitcher who worked three scoreless innings.

Keyler Gonzalez

The Missouri Tigers relief pitcher who earned the win with 2.1 innings of relief.

Jamal George

A Missouri Tigers player who hit a sacrifice fly in the sixth inning to add an insurance run.

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What they’re saying

“We knew Illinois would be a tough opponent, but our guys came out focused and ready to play. The early offense and strong pitching were the keys to the win.”

— Head Coach

What’s next

Missouri will look to build on this win when they face Lindenwood on Wednesday, March 26, 2026.

The takeaway

Missouri's victory in the annual Braggin' Rights game against Illinois showcases the Tigers' ability to win close, hard-fought matchups against their in-state rival, keeping them in contention for a strong postseason push.