Evergreen Park Triumphs in Regional Championship with Family Rivalry on the Mound

Junior left-hander Cadyn Kummer started on the mound for Evergreen Park Saturday, aiming to secure the team’s first regional championship since 2017. The stakes were high, not just for the team, but also for family bragging rights. Cadyn’s cousin, Jake Kummer, pitched for the opposing Oak Forest team.

Cadyn shared his anticipation before the game, saying, “We were texting and Jake said he was pitching. I thought, ‘This is going to be amazing.’ It was a unique experience.”

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

Noah Munoz earned the win in relief, with 2 2/3 innings of scoreless, hitless pitching and three strikeouts. He also excelled offensively, going 3-for-4 and hitting the go-ahead, two-run double in the sixth inning.

The game marked Evergreen Park’s fourth consecutive regional final against Oak Forest, with Oak Forest having won the previous three matchups.

“It means a lot for this team, this program, and the whole village,” Munoz expressed after the game, highlighting the community’s support.

Jake Kummer pitched 5 2/3 innings for Oak Forest, allowing four earned runs and striking out three. Despite challenges, Cadyn Kummer only let one run score in the first inning and effectively managed potential innings of trouble.

Reflecting on his performance, Cadyn said, “I struggled with composure this season, but I kept my cool this game.”

Evergreen Park coach Andrew Massey praised Cadyn’s skill, noting that when he remains focused and positive, he becomes a strong competitor.

The Mustangs trailed 3-2 but staged a four-run comeback in the sixth inning. Garcia’s RBI single tied the score, and Munoz’s two-run double was pivotal.

“It was amazing,” Munoz said, describing the moment he capitalized on the scouting report’s advice to attack the first-pitch fastball.

Ultimately, Evergreen Park secured a satisfying victory against a familiar rival, bringing redemption after past losses. Cadyn reflected, “It was tough losing to Oak Forest in previous years. We did it for all those past teams.”

Sharing in his family’s excitement, Cadyn noted, “It’s such an accomplishment. My brother never got to do this, so it’s special.” And about beating his cousin? “We’ll have plenty to talk about at family gatherings,” he added.