Mount Carmel’s playoff journey marked a significant achievement, reaching state playoffs for the first time in 11 years. Senior catcher Mario Medina played a crucial role, displaying leadership behind the plate. Not known for many words, Medina’s presence kept the Caravan focused. To him, returning to state meant everything.
“It was a big game and a special moment,” Medina noted.
Medina, having spent four years with his teammates, considers them his brothers. The Caravan’s return to state held immense value for him.
Though Medina made significant efforts during Mount Carmel’s attempt, Libertyville secured a 3-1 victory in a semifinal match at Joliet’s Slammers Stadium. Medina’s contribution included one of the team’s three hits and a crucial defensive play involving a tag at home. Despite his efforts, the defending Class 4A champion Libertyville remained victorious.
On the pitch, Notre Dame recruit Connor Elenteny was formidable, striking out five in six innings. He allowed three earned runs on six hits. Illinois commit Joey Ireland contributed with a double and an RBI walk, while Triton recruit Logan Fernandez added a base hit.
Reflecting on the game, Elenteny mentioned his desire to do more for the team. Mount Carmel now prepares to face Naperville Central in the third-place game, not losing hope for their championship aspirations.
“I was saying the whole time, ‘We’ve got to find a way,’” Ireland recalled.
Entering the seventh inning trailing 3-0, Mount Carmel demonstrated resilience. They drew three walks, with Pancho Vazquez scoring after being hit by a pitch. However, Aksel McKnight secured an end to the game, inducing a fly out to center field from Fernandez, leaving the bases loaded.
Medina and Haiden Lajcin collaborated on a pivotal defensive play in the third inning. With runners on second and third, two outs, Lajcin caught a fly ball, launching a powerful throw to home. Medina completed the sequence with a successful tag on Braden Tolzien before he reached the plate.
“I saw the ball go out there, thinking ‘Four, four, four.’ The throw was there and I dove for the tag. It felt like a momentum shift,” Medina reflected.
Mount Carmel coach Brian Hurry praised their effort.
“That was an unreal play by Haiden and Mario. A great throw and a great tag,” Hurry stated.
Throughout his career, Medina has delivered crucial plays, guiding an impactful pitching staff simultaneously.
“I’ve tried to step up as a leader this year. I don’t know if they felt it, but that’s what I aimed to do,” Medina expressed.
Teammate Elenteny confirmed Medina’s influence.
“He’s the best you can get. He doesn’t say much, but he is the biggest leader,” Elenteny affirmed.
Mount Carmel’s senior group, many having been on varsity for years, will play one last game together, cementing their legacy within the program.
“They’ve made a significant impact on a program with tradition and pride. A lifetime of memories,” Hurry concluded.
Leave a Reply