What a day to be at the ballpark! Yesterday, it was about perfect. I had been going through baseball withdrawal. Normally at this time, it would have been a few months without baseball but this year, I haven’t seen (or photographed) an Illini baseball game since the first home game. That was when the Big Ten season was canceled.
So when I got permission to attend Wednesday’s practice, I jumped at the chance. I of course, followed Covid safety protocols. As an employee of the University of Illinois, I am keenly aware of the safety procedures that are put in place. So I masked up and took off work early to watch the boys practice.
This was an opportunity to see two new and highly-touted Illini pitchers.
Andrew Hoffmann
Andrew Hoffmann is a transfer from John A. Logan Community College. He sported a 2.08 ERA in his freshman year. Check out his 2019 stats with summer league team Traverse City Pit Spitters. He had a excellent season going 8-0 with a minuscule 1.08 ERA.
Jack Crowder
Jack Crowder got some time on the mound too. Jack is a freshman and his list of accomplishments and honors is too long to list here. Perfect Game ranked him as the #2 pitcher in the state and that is good enough for me.
Welcome to the team, boys!
By the way, this was the first time I saw the completed Field Turf since they installed it. It looks fantastic! The look of Illinois Field is very different and highly approve.
Now about the parking lot…
Photos from Wednesday’s practice
These photos are located in the IBR photo gallery.
Hartleb tapped for Appalachian League steering committee
Finally, Coach Dan Hartleb was chosen to help steer the transition of the Appalachian League into a format consistent with a summer league.
Coach Hartleb is being recognized for his contribution to the college baseball community. Personally, I think he is an obvious good choice to help provide input into this process.
Congrats, Coach!