Manson, Bonadonna key win in tourney

That is a smile of a proud father.  Russell Bonadonna (above) is holding the homerun ball hit by his son, Joe during Wednesday’s action at the Big Ten Tournament.  Bonadonna’s homer proved to be the game-winner in the win against Ohio State in the first round of the tournament.  Illinois…

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Settling in at Ann Arbor, Tomorrow the Big 10 Tournament

I just rolled into Ann Arbor this evening on the aptly named “Wolverine” Amtrak line.  I’m staying at the Lamp Post Inn.  It’s a budget motel but it has the important amenity I need.  Wireless access. When I told the motel owner my reason for being here he told me…

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Illinois Twice-Boiled by Purdue but at least they’re Ann Arbor-bound

There’s good news and bad news.  Well, the good news is the Illini are going to the Big Ten tournament and we have Indiana to thank for that.  The Hoosiers swept the Michigan State Spartans in Friday’s doubleheader and thereby eliminating them from tournament qualification. So on to Ann Arbor…

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One series left in regular Big Ten play

No game on Sunday between Illinois and Ohio State.  Rain washed away any chance of the Illini to tie Ohio State for the weekend.  As frustrating as that probably is, Ohio State had the momentum after their amazing comeback in Game 2 on Saturday (they scored 10 runs in the…

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Illini finish Friday’s business then Buckeyes reign

On Saturday, Illinois and Ohio State completed their Friday contest that was suspended by rain.  Illinois won easily with both teams scoring two additional runs.  Final Score 9-4 Illinois. The win goes to Kevin Manson which makes him 7-1 on the season.  Mike Sterk got his third save of the…

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Illini leading 7-2 in suspended game against Buckeyes

Friday night games continue to be plagued by the weather.  Fortunately, Illinois and Ohio State were able to get a good six plus innings in before the game was called.  Even better, the Illini have a good head start on the Buckeyes leading 7-2. Starter Kevin Manson pitched a gem…

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