By Matt Yarber
Illinois Director of Operations

Lincoln Way Central vs. Brother Rice

CHICAGO, IL - Brad Bass, the No. 1-ranked player in the Class of 2014, took the mound for No. 25 Lincoln-Way Central and did not disappoint in his season debut Thursday, though got the no-decision as host Brother Rice won in walk-off fashion, 5-4.

A look at some highlights of the game:

Lincoln Way Central

Brad Bass, RHP, Class of 2014 – The Notre Dame commit started the season for the Knights with an 84-87 mph fastball, touching 89 once in the first inning. The 6-foot-6 RHP impressed with his 73-74 mph slider and 78-79 mph changeup.  Bass will continue to see his velocity climb as he acclimates into baseball shape. Bass is also a basketball player.  His final line for the game was 4 IP, 3 hits, 2 BB, 6 Ks.

Ryan Kahne, RHP, Class of 2013 – The unsigned senior showed well in relief of Bass.  The 6-foot-2, 170-pound RHP was 81-83 mph with his fastball that was inconsistent in the zone. Kahne, though, kept the hitters off balance with his 67-71 mph curveball that had a tight spin and 11/5 shape.  Kahne’s final line was 2 1/3 IP, 1 H, 7 Ks, 3 BB, and 1 HBP recording the loss for the Knights.

Lucas Jones, OF, Class of 2013 – The senior outfielder was impressive at the plate.  The left-handed hitter showed a good approach at the plate, staying within himself and working the middle of the field.  Jones went 2-for-4 on the day.

Brother Rice

Kevin Biondic, 2B, Class of 2014 – The 6-foot, 160-pound middle infielder looked relaxed at the plate all night as he recorded the first hit of the day for Brother Rice, a one-out double to right center off Bass. He also delivered the game's last hit, a one-out walk-off single.  On the day the junior went 2-for-3 with four RBIs.

Jake Barry, 1B, Class of 2014 – Barry is a physical 6-foot-2, 190-pound right handed hitter who has a chance to be a real power threat in the lineup for Brother Rice. 

Brian Musielak, RHP/3B, Class of 2014 – Musielak looked good on the mound, using three pitches to keep the hitters off balance.  Though he is not overpowering, the junior sticks to his game, inducing ground balls and getting key outs.