Sangamon Sun

Ripon College's baseball team claimed victory in a doubleheader against Illinois College at Joe Brooks Field, Jacksonville. The Red Hawks won the first game 7-5 and followed up with a 15-5 win in the second game. This result brought Ripon's record to 6-10 overall and 3-3 in conference play, while Illinois College dropped to 15-10 overall and 2-7 in the conference.

In the opening game, Illinois College initially led with three runs. Logan Schweigert's sacrifice fly and Sam Hulvey's walk contributed to two runs in the second inning, followed by Jon Tate stealing home in the fourth. However, Ripon responded with four runs in their half of the fourth inning. Despite tying the game later through Louie Bartletti's score after an error, Illinois College fell behind again as Ripon scored three more times. Connor Hennemann managed to drive Ryne Mapes home for one last run for Illinois College.

Jon Tate was notable for his performance with two hits and two scores. Charlie Lardi pitched for 5 2/3 innings, allowing six runs (five earned) on five hits while striking out nine batters.

The second game saw Ripon taking an early lead with five runs before Illinois College scored their first run via Braden Weaver on a groundout by Bartletti. Despite reducing Ripon's lead with four additional runs in the fourth inning, including Tyler Barker scoring on an error and Schweigert on a wild pitch, Illinois College couldn't keep up as Ripon extended their lead further.

Bartletti drove in three RBIs for Illinois College while Schweigert added two hits. Branson Shaw pitched for 2 2/3 innings, giving up eight runs (three earned) on five hits.

Illinois College is set to host Beloit next weekend at Joe Brooks Field for another series of games starting at noon both days.