UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky celebrates after hitting his 21st home run of the season against Illinois in the Big Ten Tournament on Wednesday in Omaha, Nebraska. Photo by Kyler Adams, Baseball Prospect Journal.
UCLA clinched a spot in the Big Ten Tournament knockout round with an 8-6 win over Illinois, securing the top spot in its pool in Omaha, Nebraska.
The Bruins (40-15, 22-8) hit the 40-win mark for the seventh time under coach John Savage, and the first since 2022.
Payton Brennan led the offense with three RBIs on a 2-for-4 day, while Phoenix Call went a perfect 3-for-3 from the nine-hole.
Big Ten Player of the Year Roch Cholowsky added his 21st homer and reached base four times, including two intentional walks. He also broke UCLA’s single-season hit-by-pitch record with his 20th plunking.
Photo Gallery
Ian May started for UCLA against Illinois in the Big Ten Tournament, throwing 2 2/3 innings and allowing two runs. Photo by Kyler Adams, Baseball Prospect Journal.UCLA coach John Savage confronts the umpire during the team’s game against Illinois. The Bruins hit the 40-win mark for the seventh time under Savage. Photo by Kyler Adams, Baseball Prospect Journal.Coltin Quagliano tallied two hits and drove in two runs for Illinois against UCLA in the Big Ten Tournament. Photo by Kyler Adams, Baseball Prospect Journal. UCLA tries to get the Illinois base stealer out with shortstop Roch Cholowsky covering the bag. Photo by Kyler Adams, Baseball Prospect Journal. Roman Martin celebrates his double against Illinois in the Big Ten Tournament. Photo by Kyler Adams, Baseball Prospect Journal.Illinois coach Dan Hartleb is in his 20th season at the helm. Photo by Kyler Adams, Baseball Prospect Journal.UCLA righty Easton Hawk finished the game against Illinois in the Big Ten Tournament. Photo by Kyler Adams, Baseball Prospect Journal.Phoenix Call went 3 for 3 with a double and hit by pitch against Illinois in UCLA’s victory in the Big Ten Tournament. Photo by Kyler Adams, Baseball Prospect Journal.
Kyler Adams is a student at the University of Nebraska who joined Baseball Prospect Journal as a photographer in 2024. Known for his ability to capture the raw emotion and intensity of sports, he has quickly established himself as a talented visual storyteller. During his time with Baseball Prospect Journal, he has covered major events such as the Big Ten Tournament and the College World Series.
