Illinois came into last weekend’s series against Purdue tied for third and winning their last three Big Ten series. After losing Friday’s game in low scoring fashion, 3-1, it looked like they had their work cut out for them the rest of the weekend. The Orange and Blue proved they were up for the challenge as they won both Saturday’s and Sunday’s games. The 2-1 series now puts Illinois in a tie for second place, the highest they’ve been all year.
Some quick thoughts on the series
Kevin Johnson put in his trademark hard luck game on Friday. He only gave up two earned runs in seven innings and got the loss. That’s his sixth loss on the year on just two wins. Tough year.
On the other hand, John Anderson (left) won his sixth game on Saturday when the Illini defeated Purdue 7-4. He also was a third of an inning away from getting his fifth complete game of the season. Wes Braun came in and got his sixth save. By the way, has anyone noticed Braun’s ERA lately? It’s hovering under 0.60 right now.
Interestingly, every starter except batting leader Justin Parr got a hit on Saturday. Let ‘em catch up, Justin.
Sunday’s game was quite a doozy. It was a roller coaster affair with Illinois getting the quick 4-0 lead then Purdue eventually working to catch up to get the lead back by the fifth inning 5-4. The ninth inning was key for Illinois. A two out rally with base hits by Justin Parr, Pete Cappetta, and Brandon Hohl sandwiched around an error was enough to score two runs and win 7-5.
Chris Pack gets the deserved win in relief. He went 4 2/3 scoreless innings allowing just two hits. Pack also pitched a perfect inning in Friday’s loss.
Cappetta continues his Big Ten dominance.. he was 3 for 3 and had six hits for the weekend.
Random Ramblings
In case you hadn’t heard, U of I Athletic Director Ron Guenther is calling it quits after 19 years.
Chris Pack’s win on Sunday gives him a 5-1 record. All of his games have been in relief but his five wins put him second on the team (behind Anderson’s six). For that matter, Will Strack (who just has one start) is tied for third in wins with three.
Next Up
Our last regular season series of the year this weekend against Indiana. Keep in mind that this “weekend” will start a day early on Thursday, May 19th. Thursday’s game starts at 6:05pm.
Go Illini!