April 10, 2004

Box Score

Champaign, Ill. - The University of Illinois baseball team rode Tom Gorski's first career shutout en route to defeating Michigan State, 3-0, in front of 626 fans Saturday evening at Illinois Field. The win moves Illinois to 9-16 on the year and 2-5 in the Big Ten while MSU falls to 16-11 on the year and 6-1 in the Big Ten.

After three scoreless innings, Illinois drew first blood in the bottom of the fourth. With the bases loaded and two out, first baseman Shawn Roof sent a two-run single to left as Illinois grabbed a 2-0 lead on MSU and starter Jeff Gerbe.

Illinois added insurance in the bottom of sixth. Chris Robinson doubled to center with one out, Ryan Hastings walked and Vince DiMaria legged out a bunt single to load the bases again for Shawn Roof, who was hit by a pitch to drive in Robinson and move the lead to 3-0.

Illini starter Tim Gorski threw a complete game gem, allowing only four hits while striking out seven and walking only one while improving to 2-0 on the year. MSU starter Jeff Gerbe suffered the loss, falling to 2-2 on the year, after allowing three runs on five hits in 5 1/3 innings of work.

Offensively, Illinois was led by Roof, who went 1-for-1 with three RBI.

Illinois and Michigan State conclude their four-game Big Ten series with a single game Sunday. First pitch is scheduled for 1:05 p.m.