Three hits for Illinois’ David Kerian in Game 1 loss
In a heartbreaking Game One of the Big Ten Tournament, Illinois (33-17) lost to Minnesota (31-20) on walk-off hit by the score of 3-2. Illinois had the lead till the Gophers tied it 2-2 in the bottom of the fifth inning. Andy Henkemeyer drove home the winning run in the bottom of the ninth to give Minnesota the victory.
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The starters for both teams pitched well. Illinois’ Kevin Duchene and Minnesota’s Tom Windle both gave up just two runs in their respective stints. Windle however, did give up six walks including a bases-loaded one in the second. The bad news? Windle got out of the inning with the bases full.
However, it was the relievers on both teams who played key roles in the decision. The Gophers’ Ben Meyer (5-4) pitched four scoreless innings for the win. Ronnie Muck (3-1), who has been quite effective as of late, just got into a jam in the ninth. He was helped by a fielder’s choice play at the plate but that just delayed the inevitable run scoring single that came right after.
Tough loss for the Illini.
Big Ten Watch
The second game of today’s initial day of the Tournament involves #3 seed Nebraska (13-8) and #6 seed Michigan (14-10). In progress as I write this, Nebraska is winning 7-0 in the 6th inning and Kyle Kubat is pitching quite a game (edit: as I’m finishing this article, Kubat gave up his first hit in the 7th inning).
Minnesota will get to face #1 seed Indiana tomorrow night at 7pm.
Here are some handy links for info on the B10 Baseball Tournament:
Big Ten Baseball Tournament Central
Big Ten Baseball Tournament release
Next Up
Now entering the loser’s round, Illinois has another noon game scheduled for tomorrow. They will face the loser of today’s Michigan-Nebraska game. So most likely, we can expect to see Michigan matchup unless they can get their offense going this afternoon.
Game time is at noon and will be broadcasted on the Big Ten Network.
Good luck Illini!