Getting closer: Illini take game 1 against Minnesota on Thursday

Kevin Duchene comes through again versus Minnesota

Kevin Duchene continues to pitch well as he won his eighth game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers.  It was a key win as the Illini (32-15, 13-9 Big Ten) were facing a formidable pitcher in Tom Windle.  The Illinois offense managed to score four runs off Windle raising his ERA over 2.00.  Final Score:  Illinois 6 Minnesota 2

The win for Duchene matches the team high for a freshman set just last year by John Kravetz.  At 8-1 with a 2.67 ERA, Duchene is making a good case for himself to make the All-Big Ten Freshman squad. 

Game #46 / May 16, 2013
	vs
6		2

For the record, Duchene put in a solid performance pitching six innings and allowing just two runs.  He spread out six hits and again showed control by giving up just two walks. 

Both teams scored one in the first but it wasn’t until the fourth when the Illini’s Reid Roper drove home a run with a sac fly did another run score.  They added two more in the sixth when Jason Goldstein and Thomas Lindauer both came through with rbi singles.  And just in case, David Kerian drove home two with a double in the ninth inning. 

Though it wasn’t a save situation, Coach Hartleb wasn’t taking any chances.  He brought out the big guys from the bullpen in the 7th inning.  Ronnie Muck pitched two hitless innings and Bryan Roberts closed out the game with a perfect ninth. 

Big Ten Watch

With yesterday’s win and Penn State’s miracle win against Michigan State (11-9, 32-17 overall), Illinois’ magic number to make the Big Ten Tournament is down to one. 

Next Up

Today’s game is still in progress as I write this.  It started as scheduled at 2pm but there was a substantial rain delay and the game was continued at 4:30.  Currently, Illinois has a 4-2 lead after 6 innings.  Thomas Lindauer and David Kerian continue to rake the ball as they are both 2 for 3 with an rbi.  Jordan Parr is also 2 for 3 with a run scored. 

Good luck Illini!