In Saturday’s game against Purdue (5-17, 1-1 Big Ten), the Illinois squad (13-11, 1-1 Big Ten) combined timely hitting with another fine performance by sophomore righty Ryan Castellanos to tie the weekend series 1-1.
Castellanos pitched his first complete game as an Illinois pitcher and improved to 3-1 for the win. He allowed nine hits but more importantly,he gave up no walks for the second start in a row.
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Offensively, it was the top and the bottom of the order that did the most damage. Will Krug and Michael Hurwitz combined for three hits and three rbis while Ryne Roper and Adam Walton both had two hits and scored a total three runs. Hurwitz plopped a double and Krug slapped a triple to help the cause.
Krug’s triple came in the 7th which was the key inning for the Illini. Ahead 3-2, the Illini scored three runs to cushion their lead.
In other news
Some of you have been wondering what has happened to our ace starter, Kevin Duchene. Duchene, who won Big Ten Pitcher of the Week honor earlier this season, hasn’t been on the mound for a couple of weeks. I asked SID Matt Wille a week or so ago and he assured me they are just being careful due to forearm soreness. The local paper, the News Gazette, also just published an article on Duchene’s situation.
To sum up, coach Hartleb is just being careful to not place any more strain on Duchene’s forearm. They’ll bring him out when he ready. Duchene’s forecast? He’s good to start playing catch next week.
Also, here some good news about a former Illini. It was announced today that former Illinois starting pitcher Tanner Roark has made the 25-man roster for the Washington Nationals.
Next up
Illinois and Purdue play the rubber game of their series on Sunday. Game time is scheduled for 1pm. Pitcher Rob McDonnell is the probable starter for the Illini.
See you at the ballpark!