JACKSONVILLE, Ill. – In a game packed with offense, Illinois College outslugged Ripon College, 16–12, Saturday afternoon at Joe Brooks Field in a contest that saw a combined 28 runs and 38 hits.
With the win, the Blueboys improve to 21-12 on the season and take the top spot in the conference standings at 9-5. Ripon drops to 11-17 overall and 6-6 in conference play.
Illinois College 16 Ripon 12
The turning point came in the third inning, when the Blueboys exploded for seven runs—scoring six before Ripon could record an out. IC tallied nine extra-base hits on the day, including a pair of doubles in that third-inning surge.
Nolan Decker added to the offensive fireworks with a grand slam in the fifth, stretching the lead to double digits. Though Ripon mounted a comeback attempt, the early deficit proved too steep.
Every IC starter collected at least one hit in the series finale. Decker led the way with a monster performance, going 4-for-5 with five RBIs and three runs scored.
Louie Bartletti added a 3-for-5 day, including a solo home run in the eighth for insurance.
Ketch Mills,
Jon Tate, and
Ryne Mapes each chipped in with three hits apiece.
Parker Phillis got the start on the mound, allowing two runs over 2.1 innings.
Andrew Wieneke earned the win in relief, improving his record to 4-1.
Up Next
The Blueboys hit the road Wednesday for the series finale at Monmouth College. First pitch is set for 1:00 p.m.
