Libertyville’s Carson Holmes Shines in State Title Win

Carson Holmes, a senior outfielder for Libertyville, wasn’t an obvious choice for heroics in the Class 4A state championship game. Despite previous postseason success with a .500 batting average, Holmes faced a slump. He was hitless in his last 10 at-bats with six strikeouts before stepping up in the top of the eighth inning at Wintrust Field in Joliet.

“I was slumping,” Holmes admitted. Recently, he tried various bats to change his fortune. For his final high school plate appearance, he chose the bat he had often used the previous year. “It was a mental reset,” he explained. Returning to his trusted bat proved wise as Holmes hit the game-winning single, allowing junior pitcher Madden Cotts to score, securing a 7-6 victory over Maine South. This win marked Libertyville’s second consecutive state title.

“It was a fastball, high and inside,” Holmes said. “At first, I was nervous it might be caught, but it dropped in. It felt incredible.”

Teammates had confidence in Holmes’ abilities. Trevor Wallace, a senior shortstop, recalled hearing, “He’s got his old bat. Watch, he’s going to get a hit.” Holmes had consistently batted third, reflecting the team’s trust.

Holmes credited his teammates for supporting him through his struggles. “Even when I wasn’t at my best, they had my back,” he said. Entering playoffs as defending champions heightened the pressure, but their unity brought them success.

Coach Matt Thompson showed his faith by putting Holmes back in the lineup after substituting him in left field earlier. “We assured him he’s our guy,” Thompson remarked. Despite being pinch-hit for, Holmes maintained strong practice performances, earning his coach’s trust.

Holmes’ critical single came after Jack Cenar, a senior outfielder, scored on a balk. This play gave Holmes the chance to deliver his crucial hit, an echo of his past success at the same venue. Maine South managed one run in response, but Holmes secured the victory for Libertyville.

Holmes received the game ball as a keepsake, adding it to his collection of state medals and championship rings. “I’ve watched the replay multiple times. It’s surreal,” he said. The team’s collective effort culminated in a memorable victory, marking Holmes’ high school career highlight.

Steve Reaven contributed to this report.