Sangamon Sun

Illinois College secured a close 3-2 victory over Cornell College this past Sunday in Mount Vernon, Iowa. The win, marked by a strong bullpen performance and an effective offense led by Jon Tate, advances IC to a 19-11 overall record and 7-4 in the Midwest Conference. Cornell now stands at 9-17 with a 2-7 record in the MWC.

Breaking a tie in the fourth inning, Jon Tate delivered a crucial two-run triple, allowing Ryne Mapes and Tyler Barker to cross home plate for a 2-0 advantage. Tate further contributed in the seventh inning with a leadoff double and eventually scored, securing the decisive run.

Dawson Vernier, the starting pitcher, conceded one run over 4.2 innings before the bullpen took over. Andrew Wieneke claimed the win, pitching 3.2 innings while yielding only one run, with Connor Akstulewicz finalizing the victory and earning the save with the last two outs.

Tate's performance featured a 3-for-4 batting line, including two RBIs and two extra-base hits. Barker reached base twice and scored, while the IC defense played consistently, recording only one error and executing a vital double play.

The Blueboys are scheduled to host another conference series against Ripon College, with a doubleheader set for Friday beginning at 12:00 pm.