More Amazing Photos From Joliet's Big House Ball Game At Old Joliet Prison Built In 1858

Although the Joliet Slammers lost to the Gateway Grizzlies by a score of 14-3, thousands of people who attended the game had a great time.

By John Ferak, Patch Staff

May 1, 2026 9:57 am CDT | Updated May 1, 2026 10:00 am CDT

The Joliet Slammers hosted the Gateway Grizzlies of St. Louis in a preseason baseball game at the Old Joliet Prison where inmates played baseball games more than 100 years ago. The Grizzlies won the game by a score of 14-3. (Image via Nicole Varley used with permission )

JOLIET, IL — Joliet Patch often encourages area residents to send along their own content for noteworthy events around Joliet. Thursday afternoon's Big House Ballgame at the Old Joliet Prison was unlike any major event that Joliet has ever seen before as the Joliet Slammers hosted the Gateway Grizzlies of St. Louis in a preseason baseball game at the Old Joliet Prison where inmates played baseball games more than 100 years ago.

The following photo gallery was produced by Shorewood residents Brian and Nicole Valley for the Joliet Patch.

Image via Nicole Varley used with permission

Image via Brian Varley used with permission

Image via Nicole Varley used with permission

That's Bill Murray. Image via Nicole Varley used with permission

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