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Tucker's Automotive Repair & Tire Male Athlete Of Month: Marquette Catholilc's Bauer Signs with Illinois College Baseball

Bauer’s diverse high school athletic experience and strong academics position him for success in college baseball and finance studies.

Chris Rhodes, Reporter

Feb 18, 2026 9:51 AM Feb 18, 2026 9:52 AM

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ALTON – Carson Bauer, an outfielder and pitcher from Marquette Catholic, signed his letter of intent on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, to continue his baseball career at Illinois College.

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“It means a lot to me. It’s been a goal of mine to play baseball in college, and it feels like a blessing to be able to do that next year,” Bauer said.

Bauer was also heavily involved in academics and extracurricular activities at Marquette. He was a member of the student council, National Honor Society, and the Breast Cancer Awareness Club. He earned High Honor Roll all four years and was a Silver Medallion recipient.

Bauer is a Tucker's Automotive Repair & Tire Male Athlete of the Month.

Athlete of the Month is sponsored by

“It’s been great here at Marquette. They’ve prepared me academically, athletically, and spiritually,” Bauer said.

At Illinois College, Bauer plans to study finance. The Blueboys compete at the NCAA Division III level in the Midwest Conference.

Illinois College is coached by Jacob Waddle, who is entering his eighth season as head baseball coach. Last season, Waddle led the Blueboys to a school-record 22 wins and reached the 100th victory of his coaching career.

“I went on a lot of mini visits to Illinois College, and the environment there was very friendly. The coaches really care about the players and their development,” Bauer said.

Bauer is an exceptional multi-sport athlete, and also played golf and basketball at Marquette.