Missed opportunities: Illinois drops Big Ten opener vs Purdue 4-3

Firstbaseman David Kerian flashes some leather during Friday’s game

The good guys almost pulled it off.  With the bases loaded and no outs in the ninth inning, it looked like Illinois was going to pull on out of the hat.  Will Krug managed to drive home a run with a hit to center.  A line drive out later, a bang-bang double play to the Purdue pitcher ended the Illini rally as quickly as it started and the visiting team went away happy.

Game #23 / March 28, 2014
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I can’t emphasize that despite his loss, how well starter Drasen Johnson did off the mound.  He pitched effectively and minimized the effect of three Illini errors in the first four innings.  When Johnson gave up his second run in the eighth, Coach Hartleb thought he had enough.  Unfortunately.  Purdue kept hitting and ended up scoring three runs that inning, giving them a 4-2 lead. 

Will Krug, who went 2 for 4 with a rbi and a run scored, stole his 13th base of the season. 

Box Score

Wrap up

My photos from today’s game.

Next up

Illinois is scheduled to play Purdue Saturday at 3pm at Illinois Field.  Ryan Castellanos will take the mound.  The forecast is mostly sunny and 47 degrees so bring your coat. 

See you at the ballpark!