Marist’s Lexi Kyros Shines Despite Semifinal Loss

In the high-stakes environment of Peoria’s state semifinals, Marist junior Lexi Kyros stood out not for her batting, but her defensive prowess. The Michigan commit displayed why she is a sought-after recruit by making significant plays from her position behind the plate.

During a crucial minute of the game, Kyros showcased her skills by halting a Lincoln-Way West runner at home and then thwarting another at an attempted steal to second. “It energizes me,” Kyros expressed. “I often emphasize that minimizing the number of pitches we throw benefits the team. I am committed to achieving as much as I can for my teammates.”

Kyros focused on these positives after Marist’s narrow 2-1 loss to Lincoln-Way West in the Class 4A state semifinal. Despite the upset, Marist’s Ellie Holmstrom showed resilience after scoring, with Maddie Rogers, Notre Dame commit Layla Peters, and Saint Louis recruit Ellie Holmstrom each contributing two hits for a Marist team that boasted a 36-2 record entering the game.

The Warriors countered with standout performances too. St. Xavier recruit Abby Brueggmann was pivotal, striking out four and stranding eight runners. Intriguingly, NC State recruit Reese Rourke managed a key steal of home, while St. Ambrose recruit Reese Forsythe hit a critical triple.

Marist looked ahead to a match against Oswego for a third-place finish in the competition. Playing on the last day of the tournament was something they yearned for after stumbling at the supersectional level the previous year. “Reaching this stage was crucial for us,” Kyros noted. “We aspired to play for the championship, but things unfolded differently.”

Reflecting on the game, Kyros acknowledged missed opportunities with runners in scoring positions. Marist managed just a single score, achieved by a combination of Holmstrom’s double and Alia Rowles’ squeeze bunt. Any changes in conditions were dismissed by Kyros as factors in the game’s outcome. “You can speculate endlessly,” she mentioned. “But ultimately, we left too many runners stranded. I didn’t capitalize on my moments.”

Despite this self-criticism, Kyros made critical plays that held the opposing team at bay. In the bottom of the third inning, while Lincoln-Way West had the lead at 2-0 with a runner on third, Kyros and pitcher Soleil Tate combined during a pivotal sequence to prevent additional scoring.

“Lexi’s leadership shines through,” teammate Maddie Rogers stated. “Whether we’re ahead or behind, she boosts us up. Her defensive plays can change the game’s entire complexion.”

Coach Colleen Phelan echoed these sentiments, highlighting Kyros’ preparedness and resilience. “Lexi is perpetually engaged, anticipating the next play. She absorbs pressure to support the team, and I’m proud of her contributions.”

While this season has yet to conclude, Kyros is already contemplating her future improvements. “There’s room for growth,” she declared. “I’m determined to excel even more next year.”

Tony Baranek is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.