Mount Carmel’s Mario Medina: A Steadfast Leader in Playoff Run

Throughout Mount Carmel’s journey to return to the state playoffs after 11 years, senior catcher Mario Medina has proven to be an unwavering leader. Known for his quiet confidence, Medina kept the team calm and focused. Returning the Caravan to state was significant for him.

“It was a big game and a special moment,” Medina shared. “I’ve been with these guys for four years, and they feel like brothers to me. There’s nowhere else I’d want to be.”

In Friday night’s game, despite Medina’s efforts on both offense and defense, Mount Carmel faced a tough matchup. He was key with one of the team’s three hits and a crucial defensive play. Yet, Libertyville, the defending Class 4A champion, won with a 3-1 victory in a semifinal at Slammers Stadium in Joliet.

Pitcher Connor Elenteny, bound for Notre Dame, showed strong performance with five strikeouts over six innings, conceding three earned runs on six hits. Joey Ireland, committed to Illinois, doubled and added an RBI walk. Logan Fernandez, a future Triton player, contributed with a single.

Despite the loss, Mount Carmel showed resilience. They will compete against Naperville Central at 7 p.m. on Saturday for third place. The team didn’t lose hope in their championship aspirations. Entering the seventh inning behind 3-0, they rallied with three walks and a run scored by Pancho Vazquez after a hit-by-pitch. Unfortunately, Aksel McKnight got Fernandez to fly out, sealing Libertyville’s victory.

Jose Ireland expressed his pride in the team’s fight and determination.

“We were close to finding a way at the end,” Ireland reflected. “I’m proud of the team. We fought hard all year but came up just short this time.”

Medina’s defensive prowess was showcased in the third inning. Paired with senior right fielder Haiden Lajcin, he executed a significant play. Lajcin caught a fly ball and made a strong throw to home. Medina then dove and tagged Libertyville’s Braden Tolzien before he could score, keeping the deficit at 3-0.

“I saw the ball and thought ‘Four, four, four,'” Medina recalled. “The throw was perfect, and I dove for the tag. It felt like a turning point.”

Mount Carmel coach Brian Hurry praised the play.

“Haiden and Mario made an unreal play,” Hurry said. “A fantastic throw and an incredible tag.”

Throughout his career, Medina has consistently made impactful plays while leading a successful pitching staff. His teammates felt his leadership, even if he spoke little.

“I’ve tried to step up as a leader this year,” Medina admitted. “Even if they didn’t sense it, that’s what I aimed to do.”

Elenteny confirmed Medina’s presence on the team.

“He’s the best you can play with,” Elenteny stated. “He’s our biggest leader. He’s been like a rock for us.”

Senior leadership has been a hallmark of this Mount Carmel team. Many players have been on varsity for several years. The upcoming game will be their final opportunity to play together.

“They’ve left a mark on a program rich in tradition and pride,” Hurry noted. “The memories over the past few years will last a lifetime.”