Ryan Jones faced surgery for a broken hamate bone in his right wrist just before the playoffs. Many thought St. Rita would miss his presence for the entire postseason. However, Jones, a junior infielder and pitcher, had different plans. His goal was to join if the team reached state, but he rejoined sooner, aiding their journey.
“It feels great,” Jones expressed. “Ever since surgery, I wanted to get back and support the team in any way possible. It’s awesome.” Jones returned for the Class 3A Crestwood Supersectional, contributing significantly in St. Rita’s 2-0 victory over Nazareth with a single and two walks. The Mustangs (28-12) prepared to face East Peoria (27-13) in the state semifinal.
St. Rita’s coach, John Nee, hoped for Jones’ return if they made state, but Monday’s game was a surprise. “He texted Saturday saying, ‘Coach, will you be at St. Rita on Sunday?’” Nee shared. “I asked why, and he replied, ‘I think I can take some swings.’ Our hitting coach met him. I pitched to him in the cage. He got his stitches removed (Tuesday) but decided to play earlier.”
Jones’ determination to join his team, despite some pain, was evident. He signaled to the dugout after his base hit, showing his readiness during the Supersectional.
“I credit my team for motivating me to push through adversity and do my best,” Jones said. He led St. Rita’s season, boasting a .473 batting average and ranking third in RBIs with 33. He scored 24 runs and delivered eight doubles. As a pitcher, his record was 2-0 with a 2.80 ERA over 10 games.
His return to the cleanup spot was welcomed by teammates, including Julio Gutierrez, the playoffs’ hot hitter for the Mustangs. “Ryan’s return feels good. It adds another strong hitter to our lineup,” Gutierrez noted.
Jones overcame the initial heartache of his injury and uncertain postseason status. “It was tough attending practice unable to fully participate, watching others. Yet, being with the team was enjoyable,” he mentioned. “I made the best of it until my return.”
Entering a critical game wasn’t easy, but Jones rose to the occasion. “There was concern about my performance after returning, but I was excited to play in front of a big crowd,” he admitted.
With the victory securing St. Rita’s fifth state trophy and the first since 2019, they are two wins from their inaugural state championship. “I sensed this potential from the year’s start,” Jones stated. “I’ve been eager for it. We need to keep our bats and pitching strong.”
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