Family Rivals Face Off in Thrilling Baseball Championship

Family Duel on the Mound

On Saturday, junior left-hander Cadyn Kummer started for Evergreen Park in a crucial game to win their first regional championship since 2017. Adding a personal twist, Cadyn faced his cousin, Jake Kummer, who was pitching for Oak Forest.

“We exchanged texts when Jake told me he’d be pitching,” Cadyn shared. “I replied, ‘So am I.’ It felt like an incredible chance.”

Evergreen Park’s Path to Victory

Both pitchers delivered strong performances, but Cadyn and the Mustangs emerged victorious. Cadyn pitched 4 1/3 innings, allowing two earned runs, and Evergreen Park rallied for a 6-3 win in the Class 3A Oak Forest Regional championship.

Reliever Noah Munoz secured the win, pitching 2 2/3 scoreless innings, striking out three batters. Munoz also excelled offensively, going 3-for-4 and hitting the go-ahead two-run double in the sixth inning.

Cadyn Kummer (10) pitched against Oak Forest during the championship game on May 30, 2026. (Photo: Troy Stolt / Daily Southtown)

Supporting Stars and Team Spirit

Jake Bishop finished 3-for-4 with two RBIs, while Christian Jacobo scored twice. Yarim Garcia added to the score with an RBI to advance fourth-seeded Evergreen Park to face St. Rita in the Brooks Sectional semifinal.

This victory marked the end of Oak Forest’s three-year winning streak in their regional final matchups with Evergreen Park. “This means everything to us and the community,” Munoz said amidst celebrations with fans and teammates. “To bring this home to Evergreen Park is huge.”

Jake Kummer allowed four earned runs over 5 2/3 innings, striking out three for Oak Forest, which finished the season with a 20-17 record.

Cadyn’s Growth and Composure

Cadyn faced challenges early in the game but managed to limit Oak Forest to one run in the first inning despite a shaky start. “Staying calm has been hard for me this season,” Cadyn admitted. “Today, I improved and didn’t let my frustrations affect my teammates.”

Evergreen Park coach Andrew Massey emphasized Cadyn’s potential. “Cadyn’s talent is undeniable. If he stays mentally focused, he’s a formidable pitcher.”

Evergreen Park overcame a 3-2 deficit with a four-run sixth-inning rally. Garcia’s RBI single tied the game, followed by Munoz’s crucial double.

“We knew the new pitcher favored fastballs,” noted Munoz. “I took advantage of the first pitch, creating an unforgettable moment.”

Cadyn clinched the final out, securing the Mustangs’ redemption. “Losing to Oak Forest was hard,” Cadyn said. “Finally winning feels like we accomplished this for past teams.”

Reflecting on the triumph, Cadyn highlighted its significance. “I’m proud to be the first in my family to achieve this. My older brother didn’t have this chance.”

Discussing his cousin’s defeat, Cadyn noted, “Family gatherings will have new stories to share.”