These are not misprints.
In her first 13 games this season, Crete-Monee’s Taleaana Ramirez was hitting .800 with 38 runs, 24 RBIs, 18 extra-base hits and 28 stolen bases.
The senior shortstop, who is heading to Governors State next season, is proud of those numbers.
“I’m a little surprised, but I do put a lot of work into hitting,” she said. “It’s an accomplishment to me and it shows me that I’m seeing the results that I am working for.
“My main thing is that I’m not going up there each time expecting a great hit. I’m very patient. I’m just looking for my pitch that can at least get me a base hit. That’s all I’m looking for.”
Coach Charles Simmons said Ramirez has been a great player for three years, but this season is a whole level up.
“It’s to the point where I’m surprised when she doesn’t get on base,” he said. “She’s been a star for a long time. She’s a great base stealer and has always been a good hitter. But her average is ridiculous.”
For those looking ahead, if Ramirez keeps up this remarkable batting average, it would set a state record.
According to IHSA records, Emily Crompton of Christ Our Rock Lutheran in Centralia is first with a .768, set in 2018. Crete-Monee’s Skylar Welcome is 15th on the list with a .684 in 2024.
Last May Ramirez set the program career record with 112 stolen bases.
When she gets on base, she says she studies the pitcher, the catcher and infielders before she takes off.
“I really pay attention to everybody on the field,” she said. “If they aren’t paying attention, I know my speed and I trust my speed as well to get me to the next base.”
She has six doubles, six triples and six home runs.
“She has power, but some of her home runs are in the park,” Simmons said. “The mechanics of her swing are very good. She’s not very large. She has a very good, fluid swing.”
Manteno 1-2 at Brickyard
Manteno’s softball team beat Peoria Notre Dame 6-3 and lost 7-2 to Benet and 11-2 Yorkville in the Battle at the Brickyard on April 24-25 in Bourbonnais.
In the Notre Dame win, Mady Dye pitched the win for the Panthers (13-5) and allowed one earned run. Savanna Watkins drove in two runs while Alyssa Singleton and Amiya Carlile each tripled.
Panther soccer on a roll
Manteno’s girls soccer team exploded for seven second-half goals in a 9-1 victory over Wilmington on April 20 as Emily Horath had three goals and two assists.
The Panthers (7-7) beat Streator 4-0 three days later.
Avery Kebert recorded the shutout in the net while Lyndi Fenimore and Madison Belisle scored two goals apiece.