Joliet, IL: The Hawks are off to their best start in over 20 years, and they don't seem to be slowing down anytime soon. Following up their opening-series sweep of DII #4 Heartland, the Hawks traveled to face another ranked opponent in DIII #15 Joliet—and came away with a statement 9-3 win in 11 innings.

Harper controlled most of the game, plating runs in the 2nd, 4th, and 6th innings. The Hawks capitalized on a Joliet error for their first run before adding two more on a Spencer Geake sac fly and a Brayden Clancy groundout. Solid pitching and defense held that 3-0 lead until the late innings, but the Wolves clawed back with a run in each of the last three frames, forcing extras.

The game was a defensive battle, with each team's fielding proving decisive. Joliet's five errors proved costly, especially in the 11th inning. Harper took full advantage, starting with back-to-back walks from Nick Drtina and Joey Glozier, followed by a bunt single from Geake (S) to load the bases. With momentum surging, Alex Tabbert roped a clutch two-RBI single to center, giving Harper a 5-3 lead. The floodgates opened from there. A bunt single from Derek Costilla led to another Wolves miscue, bringing in Geake (S) . Kevin Geake followed with a grounder that resulted in yet another error, scoring two more. Michael Mango's sac fly capped off the six-run outburst, giving the Hawks a commanding 9-3 lead.

Jeremy Florez slammed the door in the bottom of the 11th, striking out two to lock down the victory.


With improved pitching, sound defense, and timely hitting, Harper's 3-0 start is proving to be no fluke. They'll look to keep rolling in their home opener this Friday, a doubleheader against Waubonsee—weather permitting.