Lincoln-Way West’s Triumph in Class 4A State Semifinal

PEORIA — Senior pitcher Abby Brueggmann’s emotions ran high as she secured a significant win for Lincoln-Way West in a Class 4A state semifinal at Louisville Slugger Sports Complex. Overcoming doubts about her capabilities, Brueggmann expressed her joy, stating, “Sometimes, I didn’t think I was good enough to pitch in these kind of games. It’s great to know our team is good enough, and I’m good enough.”

Brueggmann’s performance was pivotal in Lincoln-Way West’s 2-1 upset victory against Marist. She struck out four and left eight runners stranded, contributing to the team’s record of 29-7. The contributions didn’t end there; Reese Forsythe delivered a vital triple, and Reese Rourke stole home, further securing the Warriors’ chances.

Marist had strong contenders, including Maddie Rogers and recruits Layla Peters and Ellie Holmstrom, who each had two hits. Soleil Tate from Wisconsin struck out six, bring Marist’s season record to 36-2. Despite these efforts, Lincoln-Way West advanced and was set to challenge Mundelein for the state title.

Reflecting on the journey, Brueggmann commented on the team’s leadership, saying, “We’ve got some great leaders, a lot of seniors. We got past the best team. We’re looking to win, get the job done.” The team’s strategy focused on playing loose and aggressive, an approach validated by Friday’s victory.

Marist scored their single run through Holmstrom’s double, complemented by Alia Rowles’ RBI squeeze bunt. Lincoln-Way West, however, capitalized on earlier opportunities, scoring via a double steal by Rourke and Paige Seivert, and Forsythe’s triple followed by Seivert’s hit to the warning track.

Regarding the constant threat from Marist, Brueggmann said, “They hit the ball well. Our defense’s ability to escape innings with runners on is improving. We really escaped innings in this game with our defense.” Her personal contributions in ending challenging innings were noteworthy, delivering crucial strikeouts in both the fifth and seventh innings.

Reese Forsythe, who felt honored to catch for Brueggmann, reiterated a strong partnership by encouraging her, “You’ve got this. I’m there for you. You have a tough ‘D’ behind you. Just pitch.”

Coach Heather Novak praised Brueggmann’s growth and trust in her teammates. “Her growth over these past four years and for her to have the ball in those moments is amazing,” Novak said. The team’s journey through close games and making key plays defensively has been thrilling to witness.

Tony Baranek is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.