Under a full moon, the Illini got the win they needed to get back on track tonight. They beat the visiting Bradley Braves 8-5.
Giller was a triple shy of the cycle
Mike Giller was the hero of the night. Giller drove in a career high five rbis on three hits including a double and a homerun. Giller figured prominently in the Illini’s three-run first inning when he hit his double which scored two runs. His homerun came in the fourth and drove in three runs.
Christian Cummins congratulates Willie Argo after his first inning homerun
Giller wasn’t the only offensive hero, though. Willie Argo got things started off the right way when he hit the third pitch of the first inning over the left field fence. Not only that, Willie got another hit and stole two bases. That’s 28 steals for those keeping track.
Also, Casey McMurray came through with three hits and scored two runs.
Another solid performance by Manson
Kevin Manson got the win tonight, his third, on a solid performance. He allowed just two earned runs in five innings. Matt Milroy and Billy Barrett both hurled perfect one-inning stints in relief of Manson.
Wes Braun had a bit of trouble in the eighth inning no thanks to some fielding gaffes but was able to pitch through it. Bryan Roberts pitched a perfect ninth for his 7th save of the season.
Bradley’s pitching may not have been on but boy, they hit the ball hard. Even if they were for outs, they ripped the ball. I’m not saying saying I was worried when they came back to make it 8-5 but maybe I am. It was a good game.
Brandon Hohl rounds third
Something of note that you might see this in the boxscore:
Cappetta, Pete 3b
Not exactly why Pete came in for Brandon Hohl in the game. Pete’s dad tells me that he’s never played that position before. On a different note, it was good to see catcher Matt Cervantes get some playing time tonight even if it was just in the field.
Photos are in the photo gallery. I’ve got a new/better camera so check them out. I like the results.
Next up
Friday is the Bleacher Bum Barbeque. Make it a point to tell someone about it. I’m telling all my baseball friends in the area. Northwestern is our opponent and something tells me this will be an important series when all is said and done.