Once again, Illini starting pitching rolled over the opposition at the Al Ogletree Classic, this time the Stephen F Austin ‘Jacks. Aaron Martin got the start today and for the second game in a row, the Illini starter did not give up an earned run. Martin pitched 8 solid innings giving up only 5 hits and allowing one unearned run in the fifth inning.
Martin had similar success last year at the Al Ogletree Classic when he pitched five innings of shutout ball against Lamar University.
It was touch and go for a while as Illinois’ offense couldn’t really get much going in the early part of the game either. They did score one run in the first thanks to Aaron Johnson’s rbi base knock which scored Joe Bonadonna who led the game off with a double.
It was goose eggs for Illinois till the 7th, when they rallied for three aces. Two ‘Jacks errors contributed to their success. Add to that singles by Josh Parr and Pete Cappetta (who by the way, are both starting out hot this year) and you have a recipe for a three run inning. Final score of the game:
For the game, Parr was 2 for 3 with a run and 2 rbis. He was 4 for 4 in yesterday’s game against UTPA. As for Cappetta, he already has three hits this weekend. He led the Illini in hits (5) in last weekend’s Challenge tournament.
Tomorrow, it’s an early start for Illinois. At 9am, they take on the University of Texas Arlington Mavericks. Ben Reeser will be on the mound for the Illini.
Good luck, Illinois! Let’s make it a Texas Sweep!