Johnson shuts out the Boilermakers
There were more alumni festivities on Saturday at Illinois Field (more on that below) and boy, did Illinois starting pitcher Kevin Johnson give the old ‘mates a show. Not only did he pitch a complete game but he exacted revenge on the Purdue Boilermakers by shutting them out on a six hitter. Illinois won tonight 7-0.
Yes, in case you’re wondering, that is the first complete game pitched by an Illini pitcher this season. Here is the highlight reel from the Big Ten Network for tonight’s game:
Johnson was in command for most of the game, mowing down the Boilermakers, walking only two. He had a bit of control trouble in the sixth with a walk then hitting a batter but managed to get out of it with no problem. Other than that, it was all KJ.
McMurray reached base four times tonight
Well, not ALL KJ. The Illini offense came to life tonight, too. Willie Argo, Casey McMurray, Pete Cappetta, and Brandon Hohl all got two hits. Argo made his count, too. He got a rbi double in the fourth inning and a triple in the sixth when he eventually scored.
For McMurray’s part, he was 2 for 2 with a double and 2 rbis and 2 runs. Only two at-bats because he also walked twice.
Willie Argo trots home to score
And for those keeping track, Willie Argo stole his 39th base tonight (a thirdbase jobber). One more and he ties Kyle Hudson for the Illini team record.
Hmm… I wonder if Adam Davis got a haircut today to change the Illini’s luck? I’ve heard of ballplayers doing stranger things.
Davis before Friday’s game… |
… and during Saturday’s game sans locks. |
Well, If he did, it’s working.
That evens up the weekend series against Purdue and puts Illinois at 9-11 in the Big Ten. The Big Ten web site has the latest standings up now.
Alumni Weekend
Illini alums and former MLB players Donn Pall and Darrin Fletcher were nice enough to pose for a photo
Speaking of alumni, there were lots and lots of former Illinois baseball players on hand to watch Kevin Johnson’s masterpiece tonight. They lined the first base and thirdbase lines as former MLB pros and alums Donn Pall and Darrin Fletcher threw out the first balls.
I got a chance to chat with former Illini closer Jake Toohey. He was awesomely nice and even remembers when I covered the team when he played for the Illini and expressed his gratitude (that always makes me feel good). He also said a few good words about the Illini’s current closer (hear that, Bryan?).
All my photos are in the photo gallery.
One more game against Purdue. Sunday’s game is at 1:05pm. Starting for Illinois is ol’ reliable Mr. TBA.