Latest news with #Zionsville
Indianapolis Star
27-05-2025
- Sport
- Indianapolis Star
Emma Vargo won't allow dislocated shoulder to keep her from postseason. 'I love this team'
FISHERS — Emma Vargo was the last player to be introduced ahead of Zionsville's Class 4A Sectional 8 quarterfinal vs. Westfield. The senior patiently waited her turn, high-fiving and cheering on each of her teammates, before doing one last spin around and taking the field herself, sharing a laugh with teammates Leah Helton, Charli Westerfield and Hadley Bray as she passed through the pitching circle. Vargo fielded a fly ball to center in the second and had a front-row seat as the Eagles staged a dramatic sixth-inning rally, tying the score at 1-1 with an RBI triple by Hadley Bray, then taking the lead on a Westerfield double a few pitches later. Vargo nearly iced the victory with a diving catch in center in the seventh, but the ball dropped in ahead of her and the 2-1 win was instead completed with a groundout to second. "It keeps the energy up (even having Vargo in the field)," Westerfield said. "We know we can always count on her out there." Vargo was nearly denied these moments, at least in the capacity she experienced them Monday night. The senior outfielder popped her left shoulder out, reaggravating a years-old shoulder injury, while punching through the eventual game-winning two-RBI single against West Lafayette Harrison at the end of April. Vargo was bent over in pain at first base, but after taking a moment to collect herself, she finished out the final three innings. Vargo felt that same pain against Westfield eight days later. Only this time it was worse. Much worse. Her shoulder popped out "pretty good" while taking a swing against Shamrocks ace and longtime friend Chloe Tanner. The pain was excruciating, Vargo said. Garrett had seen it before and "could see something was wrong when she swung and missed." "I tell kids, kiddingly, if they make contact, it won't hurt. But if they swing and miss, it hurts," he continued. "Everybody's happy if you hit the dang ball. You're happy because you're not hurting (as badly) and the team's happy because you put the ball in play. We try to keep things simple in Zionsville." Shoulder pain is nothing new for Vargo. She first dislocated her shoulder as an 11-year old and has been living with the occasional "sharp pain" in the joint ever since. Surgery was an option, she said, but there were no guarantees it would work and "I had softball to play." "So we put it in a sling and called it a day." Vargo has effectively managed the pain the past few years, but it began to worsen this spring. Her shoulder was "mad," she said, flaring up when she swung the bat and deteriorating as the season progressed — a well-hidden subplot to what's been a tremendous senior campaign. Vargo started the season 12-for-26 (.462) with 12 RBIs and six runs scored. She homered in the opener at Carmel and drove in the game-winning run vs. then-No. 1 Hamilton Southeastern in mid-April. Vargo has constantly improved since joining varsity as a freshman, Garrett said, and her emergence in the seven-spot this season further balanced their power-packed lineup. "It's pretty hard to pitch (anyone), because we've had kids like Emma step in and just hit," he added. But when Garrett saw Vargo's swing-and-miss vs. Westfield, he knew it was time to pull back, pinch-hitting during the at-bat with sophomore Kate Skura. "I told Emma to just relax," he said. "We want her for every game, but these are regular-season games. We're zeroing in on the second season, the postseason. And I knew with Kate coming along … Emma could take some time off." As Vargo gingerly retreated to the dugout, her mind immediately went to the darkest outcomes. This is it. Her senior year and softball career were both going to be cut short by injury. "I'm never going to get to play this amazing sport with my awesome teammates ever again." Though understandable, that sort of negativity is uncommon of Vargo. She's been a voice of positivity in the room throughout her career; a player who's earned her teammates' respect and is not afraid to hold them accountable. "She has a good nature about her and is a great influence on everyone," Garrett said. "We hope she can carry these things to whatever career she goes into, (because) she's going to be in high-demand," he continued. "People want to be around people like Emma Vargo." It took time for Vargo to fully regain her positive mentality — she was still a positive presence in the dugout, and credits her teammates and parents for helping her fully regain mental form — but the morning after the Westfield game she was already asking what she needed to do in order to return for sectionals. Physical therapy, rest and determination. There is a possibility the injury could get worse, Vargo said, but this is "the picture perfect situation." Her senior year with an incredibly close and talented team that's capable of winning a Class 4A state championship. More: Noblesville and its 'incredibly impressive' offense dethrone defending 4A state champion IHSAA softball sectionals: Central Indiana scores, schedule, updated pairings With no plans to play in college, Vargo accepted the risk, working with her physical therapist, trainer, parents and coaches to return to the lineup in time for the thrice-delayed regular-season finale vs. Noblesville. There was uncertainty over what her role might look like — and how it may evolve if Zionsville advances in the tournament — but given the Eagles' outfield depth (Skura has been very good), they're able to adjust based on Vargo's availability (hitting only, fielding only, pinch-hitting, etc.). Whatever she can do to help her team on the field, Vargo's ready to do it. "At the end of the day, I love softball, I love this team and I'm willing to (risk further injury)," Vargo said. "I'm just sticking it out."
Indianapolis Star
20-05-2025
- Sport
- Indianapolis Star
IHSAA baseball Fab 15 rankings: A change at the top, plus sectional predictions
We've made it to the final week of the IHSAA baseball regular season. Temperatures have consistently reached perfect baseball weather without getting too hot (in my opinion). Top teams continue to jostle for the top spot. The middle tier has started to stabilize as well with Zionsville making a leap back up the rankings. Here's this week's Central Indiana Fab 15: Last ranking: No. 2 The Tigers clinched at least a share of the Hoosier Crossroads Conference title with their 4-2 win over Franklin Central. The Tigers can clinch an outright title with a win over Brownsburg on Wednesday, or with a Zionsville loss to Noblesville. The Tigers have won four games in a row and are 11-1 in the toughest conference in the state. That's a résumé worthy of the No. 1 spot. ∎ Sectional prediction: Fishers opens sectional play against Hamilton Southeastern. Fishers is 2-0 against HSE this season. Playing a rival in an elimination game adds intrigue to the matchup, but I think Fishers advances to face the winner of Zionsville vs. Noblesville. It's unfortunate one of Fishers, Zionsville or Noblesville won't advance past the sectional semifinals, but need for a seeded tournament aside, in this exercise, I have Fishers advancing to face Westfield in the sectional championship. Fishers is 2-0 against Westfield with a combined margin of victory of just three runs. Expect a close game, but I think Fishers wins the sectional championship. Last ranking: No. 1 Center Grove has stumbled a bit, dropping two of its past four games. The Trojans will be tested down the stretch with games against Hamilton Southeastern, University and Brebeuf Jesuit looming. ∎ Sectional prediction: In another unfortunate sectional draw, reigning Class 4A runner-up Mooresville opens the postseason against Center Grove. One state title contender will be eliminated in the first round. Seems like an issue seeding could fix. With that being said, I expect Hudson DeVaughan to give the Pioneers a good chance to win, but Center Grove's depth will be too much for Mooresville. I think Center Grove advances past the winner of Southport vs. Perry Meridian to face Decatur Central. Decatur Central is a program on the rise with multiple talented underclassmen, but knocking off Center Grove is too much to ask. I have Center Grove winning the sectional title. Last Ranking: No. 4 Roncalli may be one of the hottest teams in Central Indiana. The Royals have won 11 games in a row and claimed two title last week, winning the Marion County tournament with a win over Brebeuf Jesuit on Tuesday and claiming the Circle City Conference title with a win over Guerin Catholic on Thursday. ∎ Sectional prediction: Roncalli gets one of the tougher first-round matchups opening against Shelbyville. Shelbyville has an ace in Kentucky commit Aiden Smith. Smith is 4-1 with a 2.21 ERA and 43 strikeouts over 31⅔ innings. If Smith is on, the Golden Bears have a good chance to knock off the Royals. I think Smith gives his team a great start, but Roncalli pulls out the win in the end. The Royals avoid a semifinal matchup against New Palestine, and I think both teams advance to the sectional final, setting up a great game between New Pal and Roncalli. Heading into the final week of the regular season, Roncalli has a team ERA of 2.05. New Pal has a team ERA of 1.52. Roncalli has four players with more than 27 innings pitched. New Pal has just two, Rigg Mahurin and Holden Hughes. I think Roncalli's depth allows it to knock off New Pal in a close game. Last ranking: No. 5 New Pal's offense has caught fire over its current three-game winning streak, scoring a total of 28 runs. ∎ Sectional prediction: I broke down the New Pal sectional in the Roncalli capsule above. I think New Pal advances past Rushville and Indian Creek, setting up a sectional championship game against Roncalli. The title game is a true toss-up, but I think Roncalli's depth will help the Royals defeat the Dragons in a close game. Last ranking: No. 6 Noblesville continues to rise back up the rankings. The Millers have won 10 games in a row, but they face a tough final week with a game against Brownsburg and two games against Zionsville looming. Adding to the difficulty of their final week, Noblesville ends the regular season against Zionsville, only to open sectional play against the Eagles, too. ∎ Sectional prediction: The outcome of this week would've certainly impacted how I predicted the outcome of Noblesville's first-round matchup against Zionsville. But I'm working on this before the teams play twice, so I'm going to give it my best guess. Both teams can put two aces on the mound. Junior Beckett Doane and senior Joe Glander have electric stuff for Noblesville. Zionsville can counter with sophomore Davis Moore and senior Brady Shaw. Noblesville has an experience advantage, and the offense has more slugging with senior Trevor Corbett and junior Aiden Reynolds combining for six home runs. I think Noblesville advances past Zionsville, before losing in a close game to Fishers. Last ranking: No. 14 Zionsville is the big riser with its two victories over Avon. Brady Shaw and Nick Wahl combined for a one-hit win over Avon in the first game. Camden Moore, Jackson Tielker and Matt Pederson had two RBIs each. Davis Moore threw a one-hit shutout in Zionsville's second win over Avon. ∎ Sectional predictions: I broke down the Zionsville vs. Noblesville sectional matchup in the Noblesville capsule above. Both teams are well-balanced, but I think the Millers' offense helps Noblesville pull out a close first-round win. Last ranking: No. 7 Westfield holds steady, winning four in a row by a combined 34-10 margin. Jordan Beck drove in six runs in a win over Hamilton Southeastern. Matthew Spencer, Jackson Blevins and J.P. Sears combined to shutout Greenwood Christian. Sam Flickinger threw 4⅔ no-hit innings against Columbus North, striking out six. Owen Swinford closed out the no-hitter with a strikeout. ∎ Sectional prediction: Westfield won its lone matchup against Carmel back in late April. Both teams have improved since then, but I think Westfield has the experience to defeat Carmel, advancing to the sectional championship against Fishers. I broke down the Westfield vs. Fishers matchup in the Fishers capsule. Fishers is 2-0 against Westfield, and I think the Tigers improve to 3-0, beating Westfield and clinching a sectional title. Last ranking: No. 8 The Greyhounds have hit their stride after an up-and-down April. Carmel has allowed just two runs over its past three games. Gabe Mathison and Anthony Back drove in two runs each against Mt. Vernon. Cole Caldwell threw a shutout against Batesville, scattering three hits, walking none and striking out eight. ∎ Sectional prediction: Carmel is playing some of its best baseball down the stretch, but postseason baseball is a different story. Mathison and J.D. Stein are talented and experienced players. Can they do enough to lift Carmel past Westfield? I don't think so. I think Westfield wins a close game against Carmel in the semifinal. Last ranking: No. 3 The Orioles have dropped seven of their past 11 games. They have wins over Fishers and Brownsburg over that stretch, showing how high their ceiling is, but also highlighting the inconsistency plaguing the team at times. Avon has a chance to vault back up the rankings with a game against Columbus North and two games against Westfield this week. ∎ Sectional prediction: Avon opens with a semifinal game against Plainfield. I think the Orioles defeat Plainfield, setting up a championship game against Brownsburg. Avon and Brownsburg split in the regular season. Brownsburg won the most recent matchup and has been playing better of late. I think Brownsburg knocks off Avon, clinching the sectional title. Last ranking: No. 9 Lapel continues to win, moving its win streak to 13 games in a row. Kai Newman struck out 11 and allowed just one hit over five shutout innings against Kokomo in the first game of a doubleheader. Ray Smith added two hits and three RBIs in the second game of the doubleheader. ∎ Sectional prediction: The Bulldogs should be the heavy favorite to win the Lapel sectional. Aside from Lapel, Frankton is the only team with a winning record in the sectional, and Lapel beat Frankton 10-3 in late April. I think Lapel cruises to a sectional championship over Frankton. Last ranking: No. 12 Cathedral clinched its 30th City championship with a 2-0 win over Covenant Christian. Connor Christiansen drove in both runs with a single. Ethan Dorsey and Landon Hughes combined for the shutout. The Irish dropped a game against reigning Class 4A champion Lake Central before handily winning their next two games. ∎ Sectional prediction: Cathedral dropped down to Class 3A this season, instantly becoming a strong state title contender. The Fighting Irish seem poised to face Bishop Chatard in the sectional final. Cathedral is 2-0 against Chatard, winning by a combined 16-2 margin. I think the Fighting Irish defeat Chatard a third time, clinching a sectional title. Last ranking: No. 11 Cascade moved it win streak to nine in a row with quality wins over Lebanon and Decatur Central. The Cadets got strong pitching performances from Royce Bright, Jackson Minner and Davis Hart against Lebanon. Hart added a complete game win against Decatur Central, allowing one run and striking out four. Cascade has a measuring stick game against Mooresville on Monday, and a matchup against sectional opponent Owen Valley on Wednesday. ∎ Sectional prediction: Cascade moved to Class 3A this season, but its sectional draw is much more favorable. The Cadets should advance to the sectional final to face the winner of Speedway vs. Owen Valley. Regardless of the opponent, I think Cascade wins the sectional title. Last ranking: No. 13 Franklin's played a tough schedule, dropping just one game against a team it probably should've beaten in Plainfield, and that loss came all the way back in early April. Braedon Burton went the distance against Greenwood, scattering six hits, allowing just one earned run and striking out eight. Nash Netter drove in three RBIs in Franklin's second win over Greenwood. The Grizzly Cubs will be tested with two games against Decatur Central this week. ∎ Sectional prediction: Franklin opens the tournament with a semifinal matchup against Columbus East. I think Franklin defeats Columbus East, advancing to face Whiteland in the championship game. Whiteland has a great win against Center Grove, showing what it can do when everything is going well. I think Franklin's tough schedule will have it ready to pull out a close win over Whiteland for the sectional title. Last ranking: Tied 15th Tri-West had won nine of its past 10 games before dropping a game to Noblesville via run rule. The 10 runs allowed to the Millers ties the total the Bruins surrendered over their past four games combined. Noblesville is a state title contender and should serve as a measuring stick for Tri-West. ∎ Sectional prediction: Tri-West opens a talent-heavy sectional against Frankfort. I predict the Bruins will beat Frankfort and advance to face a Crawfordsville team they've beat twice already. I think Tri-West makes it three wins over Crawfordsville, setting up a sectional championship against Brebeuf. Brebeuf is scuffling down the stretch, losing three in a row heading into the final week of the regular season. I think Tri-West plays sound baseball and beats Brebeuf to win the sectional title. Last ranking: Tied 15th Triton Central's six-game winning streak came to an end with a loss to Heritage Christian. Games against Lutheran and Park Tudor will be great tests before the postseason begins. ∎ Sectional prediction: Triton Central opens the tournament against Irvington Prep. The Ravens average 11.5 runs per game. Offense isn't a problem, but IPA has to pitch well to win. I think Triton Central beats IPA, advancing to face Scecina. The Tigers beat Scecina by a combined 24-2 margin in their first two games. I think Triton Central beats Scecina again, setting up a championship game against Heritage Christian. In a close game, Heritage Christian knocks off Triton Central to win the sectional title.
Yahoo
18-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
How Zionsville outlasted Lafayette Jeff in IHSAA boys volleyball sectional thriller
WEST LAFAYETTE ― The clash between Zionsville and Lafayette Jeff Thursday, May 15, indicated just how far boys volleyball in Indiana has come as it concludes the first season under IHSAA overwatch. While the Indianapolis area has produced nationally ranked high school teams, there were questions about whether or not Lafayette Jeff could handle the size and pressure brought about by Zionsville. Advertisement Zionsville beat Lafayette Jeff twice during the regular season but faced determined resistance from the Bronchos. Zionsville was more consistent. Seniors 6-foot-5 outside hitter Anders Christianson pounded 15 kills, left hander Mason Archer slammed 11 kills and Liam Vigil added 10 kills as the Eagles outlasted Lafayette Jeff in a first-round thriller of the IHSAA sectional quarterfinals, 11-25, 25-20, 25-22, 20-25, 15-11. The other sectional quarterfinal saw Harrison sweep North Putnam in three sets, 25-11, 25-8, 25-20. Harrison will face Zionsville in the second semifinal Saturday, May 17, with the championship game later that night at Harrison. More: Boys volleyball experiencing growing pains despite popularity in first season under IHSAA Advertisement More: Take your pick: Vote for the Journal & Courier Athlete of the Week for May 4 to May 10 Lafayette Jeff Bronchos Edwin Rodriguez (3) celebrates with Lafayette Jeff Bronchos Joshua Waller (1) Thursday, May 15, 2025, during the IHSAA boys volleyball sectionals match against the Zionsville Eagles at Harrison High School in West Lafayette, Indiana. Senior captain Kevin Braxton led the Bronchos with 14 kills, junior Azlan Rodriguez added 13 kills and junior setter Josh Waller totaled eight kills, 12 digs and four assists for Lafayette Jeff (17-8). "We played amazing, we played with our heart, and we made a bridge off that," Waller said. "We played as a family, and we were all there." Lafayette Jeff struggled containing Christianson while Zionsville (22-10) collectively began hitting short middle shots. Zionsville overcame being down 15-9 in the third set before Lafayette Jeff rallied in the fourth. Advertisement Lafayette Jeff forced the fifth set despite starting junior middle blocker Colin Smith injuring his left ankle in the fourth frame. "It was a heartbreaker, but we knew he was going to support us no matter what, whether he was on the court or on the bench," Braxton said. More: Lafayette Jeff and McCutcheon reflects on first IHSAA boys volleyball game Lafayette Jeff will many return key players next year, including Rodriguez and Waller, who are receiving college looks. Rodriguez led the Bronchos with 208 kills while Waller proved to be a well-rounded player, totaling 118 kills, 102 digs and 59 assists for the 2025 campaign. The Zionsville Eagles celebrate Thursday, May 15, 2025, during the IHSAA boys volleyball sectionals match against the Lafayette Jeff Bronchos at Harrison High School in West Lafayette, Indiana. Set-by-set breakdown of Lafayette Jeff vs. Zionsville Set one: Zionsville looked like a team that woke up from a nap, while Lafayette Jeff looked engaged from the jump. A 3-0 lead ballooned to an 18-6 advantage. Junior setter Josh Waller and libero Edwin Rodriguez-Arteaga led a strong shot receive and never looked out of sorts. The balance of Waller set the stage for senior Kevin Braxton with three kills and a block. Junior Azlan Rodriguez has a 4-foot vertical and swift enough to play defensive specialist or libero in college. Lafayette Jeff couldn't have asked for a better start. Advertisement Set two: Zionsville senior lefty outside hitter Mason Archer went on the offensive. Controlling passing in the back row, they were able to turn the momentum of the match. Short side and far side shots found their mark and the back row for Lafayette Jeff splintered. Zionsville won the set by five, but the gap felt larger. Set three: Zionsville kept its composure in the crunch and Lafayette Jeff didn't. A pair of late third set hitting errors plus a debated touch ultimately helped the Eagles claw back from a 15-9 deficit to take set three. Christianson and Archer provided the juice offensively backed by libero Landon Scroggins. Rodriguez had the highlight play, but Zionsville was more consistent in its shot receive. More: Lafayette Jeff boys volleyball returns core players in 2025 Advertisement Set four: This set illustrated what makes the speed and strategy of volleyball entertaining and fun. And it came with some drama with Smith's injury. Senior Kmaury Moten gave Lafayette Jeff a boost off the bench, while an explosive effort from Rodriguez and Josh Waller forced a fifth set. Set five: Lafayette Jeff ran out of steam, struggling against the physicality of Archer, Vigil and Christianson. Rodriguez had some flashes, but errors on shot receive doomed Lafayette Jeff. Harrison Raiders Emerson Mohr (10) celebrates with Harrison Raiders opposite Josiah Callahan (1) Thursday, May 15, 2025, during the IHSAA boys volleyball sectionals match against the North Putnam Cougars at Harrison High School in West Lafayette, Indiana. Harrison learns lessons in sweep over North Putnam Harrison, led by sophomore 6-foot-3 outside hitter Cole Hess and junior Emerson Mohr, made the first two sets look easy. Advertisement But then an 8-4 deficit morphed into a 14-10 drought against North Putnam (5-11) in the third set. "I think our communication was off and we brought that connection back up," Mohr said. Eventually Harrison found its way to earn the sweep and set up a semifinal matchup with Zionsville on Saturday at 12:30 p.m. The winner plays either McCutcheon (14-9) or Lebanon (4-7-1) for the first IHSAA sectional championship in Harold May Gymnasium in West Lafayette at 6 p.m. later that day. More: Mackey Arena to host inaugural IHSAA boys state volleyball championship Hess believes Harrison is prepared to play Zionsville, ranked No. 6 in the state according to rankings on Advertisement "I think they're more beatable now, now that we got to watch them play," Hess said. Ethan Hanson is the sports reporter for the Journal & Courier in Lafayette. He can be reached at ehanson@ on Twitter at EthanAHanson and Instagram at ethan_a_hanson . This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Lafayette Jeff, Zionsville battle in IHSAA boys volleyball sectionals
Indianapolis Star
28-04-2025
- Sport
- Indianapolis Star
Special debuts and rapid rises: Checking in on Indiana products making moves in pro baseball
The New York Mets drafted former Zionsville right-handed pitcher Nate Dohm with an eye toward unlocking his massive upside. Dohm appeared in just nine games during his junior season at Mississippi State, but his impressive fastball and starter's build caught the eyes of talent evaluators. The 6-4, 210-pound hurler didn't pitch in a game after getting selected 82nd overall in the 2024 MLB draft, but he spent the offseason refining his repertoire and focusing on the finer points of pitching. In January, Dohm was part of the Mets Top Guns pitching development camp in Port St. Lucie, Fla., where he joined 13 of the organization's top arm for more work with Mets coaches. In addition to the hands-on instruction, Dohm used the time to pick the brains of other, more experienced prospects. Dohm's "wing man" during the camp was fellow top prospect Jonah Tong. Dohm said Tong gave him great advice about how to take care of his arm between starts. "The pitching development staff they have here is incredible," Dohm said. "They've helped me a ton refining my pitches and my delivery. Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle. "I was extremely fortunate to be a part of that camp. I got to learn from some of the best prospects in the org, guys that are probably going to make their (MLB) debut this year. So, that was really cool." Dohm joined Top 100 prospects Brandon Sproat (56th overall, per Baseball America) and Nolan McLean (95th), at the camp. The magnitude of being viewed in the same standing as those prospects isn't lost on Dohm. At the same time, he knows his performance is ultimately what will help him progress through the minors. Last Tuesday, Dohm had the best start of his career playing for the Single-A St. Lucie Mets. Against Daytona, Dohm allowed just one earned run over four innings, striking out seven and walking zero. On the season, Dohm is 1-1, with a 3.52 ERA and 19 strikeouts over 15⅓ innings. "It's just about getting out there and getting out there consistently," Dohm said of his strong start to the season. "We've done a lot of work in the offseason to make sure I have a complete arsenal. I think that's starting to show. "I've been able to mix my pitches and throw off-speed in and out of the zone for strikes and swing-and-miss (pitches) late in counts. Also, little tweaks I've made in my delivery that have helped me with velocity and carry up in the zone with the fastball." Here are other native Hoosiers excelling at all levels of pro baseball. MLB Matt Gorski, Pittsburgh Pirates Former Hamilton Southeastern and IU outfielder Matt Gorski had a storybook MLB debut. Gorki, a Pirates second-round pick in 2019, received the call-up from Triple-A Indianapolis and made his debut Thursday against the Los Angeles Angels. In the first at bat, the righty hit a home run off veteran pitcher Tyler Anderson. Gorski finished the game 1-for-4. He has not appeared in a game since. Gorski spent six years — five seasons — in the minors before making his MLB debut. Across five levels of the minors including his pro debut in the now defunct New York Penn League in 2019, Gorski is batting .246 with 90 home runs and 90 stolen bases. Craig Yoho, Milwaukee Brewers Former Fishers and IU pitcher Craig Yoho had a chance at making the majors out of spring training, but returned to the minors briefly before getting the call. Yoho and his unhittable "airbender" made his debut last Tuesday against the San Francisco Giants. Yoho allowed one run on one hit with one strikeout over one inning in his first appearance. He's made three relief appearances so far, pitching to a 2.45 ERA and three strikeouts over 3⅔ innings. Jacob Hurtubise, Cincinnati Reds The Zionsville native made his first Opening Day roster as a reserve outfielder. In nine games, Hurtubise hit .143 with one run scored. Hurtubise hasn't found his groove at the plate yet, but his sweetest wing came during a gender reveal at Great American Ballpark. With his teammates looking on, Hurtubise swung through an underhand toss from his wife, Grace, exploding the ball and revealing pink dust, signaling the former Eagle is having a girl. Four days after the reveal, Hurtubise was sent down to the minors. He's batting .125 in eight games with the Triple-A Louisville Bats. Single-A Khal Stephen, Toronto Blue Jays Stephen was drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays in the second round of the 2024 MLB Draft. The Seeger grad began his career at Purdue before transferring to Mississippi State. Like his college teammate Nate Dohm, Stephen didn't pitch in a game after being drafted but hit the ground running during his pro debut. Pitching for the Single-A Dunedin Blue Jays, Stephen is 1-0 with a 1.29 ERA and 25 strikeouts over 21 innings. His best start so far came April 10 against Jupiter. Stephen struck out nine over six innings, allowing just one earned run on one hit. Gage Stanifer, Toronto Blue Jays Former Westfield pitcher Gage Stanifer was drafted by the Blue Jays in the 19th round of the 2022 MLB draft. Stanifer chose to sign with the organization and forgo a commitment to Cincinnati. His path toward minor league success has been gradual. He struggled during his pro debut, pitching to a 6.33 ERA over 11 games in the Florida Complex League. Stanifer got the bump to Single-A last season and pitched to a near identical 6.34 ERA over 19 games. Progression in the minors — especially for pitching prospects — is not linear. It's impossible to know what a pitcher is working on or tinkering with during minor league starts. Whatever changes Stanifer is making seem to be working. Repeating Single-A, through four games, Stanifer is 4-0, pitching to a minuscule 0.56 ERA and 21 strikeouts over 16 innings. He's allowed just one run in four appearances. In his last start Friday against the Tampa Tarpons, Stanifer did not allow a walk for the first time all season, throwing four scoreless innings of three-hit ball.
Indianapolis Star
22-04-2025
- Sport
- Indianapolis Star
IHSAA softball Fab 15: Zionsville reclaims top spot; New Palestine continues top-10 surge
Show Caption Spoiler alert: Zionsville reclaimed the top spot in this week's Central Indiana high school softball power rankings, but there's a new contender building a very compelling case for the top spot in 3A powerhouse New Palestine. Here's how the area's top teams stack up as we round into the final full week in April. 1. Zionsville (9-1) Last week: 2 Emma Vargo's seventh-inning base hit lifted the Eagles to a 1-0 win over defending Class 4A state champion Hamilton Southeastern. Leah Helton spun a five-hit shutout, fanning 10 batters and issuing zero walks. Zionsville maintained momentum with a 7-2 win over McCutcheon (7-2). 2. New Palestine (8-0) LW: 6 Really impressive week for the Dragons, who rolled through Franklin Central, Hamilton Southeastern and East Central, and grinded out a nine-inning win over Carmel. Gold star for pitcher Sadey Hughbanks, who allowed just one earned run over 19 innings with 26 strikeouts, including 11 in that 4-3 win over Carmel. The offense is clicking, too, boasting a team average of .383 with 87 hits (five homers, 21 doubles) and 75 runs scored. Big game Wednesday at Zionsville. 3. Hamilton Southeastern (6-4) LW: 1 Tough week for the Royals, whose 1-0 loss to Zionsville was followed by a 12-1 setback against New Palestine. HSE committed six errors and managed just three hits in the loss. The Royals will have a couple bounce-back opportunities this week with games against Avon and Lawrence North. 4. Roncalli (5-0) LW: 3 The Royals rolled to a 14-0 win over Brebeuf Jesuit in their lone game last week. Their event at Bedford North Lawrence was rained out. Kayla Brewer, Lauren Candler and Addy Poe combined for a five-inning no-hitter with nine strikeouts vs. the Braves. 5. Cathedral (9-0) LW: 4 The Irish snapped a four-game losing streak in their series against Danville, rolling to a 16-5 win. Anna Moore, Angie Valentine, Sidney Feczko and Maddie Liter all collected three hits, with Valentine, Feczko and Liter all homering and collecting multiple RBIs. Feczko also pitched five shutout innings with nine strikeouts. The Carmel Invite this weekend will pit Cathedral against 4A powerhouse Penn on Saturday. 6. Center Grove (7-2) LW: 5 The Trojans added three wins to their ledger, including a dramatic late-inning win over Brownsburg on Thursday. Hayden Baird and Brynn Meyer collected multiple hits against the Bulldogs, while Mae Munson drove in two runs. The pitching trio of Riley Fuhr, Kara Biever and Sarah Riley combined for six strikeouts and allowed just three earned runs on eight hits. CG capped its week with a 7-4 win over Bloomington South and has a busy week ahead with Franklin Central, Columbus North and Bedford North Lawrence. 7. Noblesville (6-0) LW: 12 The Millers can rake. They out-scored Fishers, Carmel, Lawrence North and WL Harrison by a combined 47-3 and have an overall run differential of 61-9 through their first six games. Noblesville is currently 10th in the coaches' rankings, but if they're able to finish above .500 over this next stretch — Franklin Central, Western, Castle and Lake Central — I'd expect them to surge up the rankings. 9. Plainfield (8-1) LW: 7 The Quakers mostly breezed through their three games last week, racing out to a 7-0 lead over Whiteland en route to a 7-3 win then claiming their next two — a rematch with Whiteland and trip to Avon — by a combined score of 24-1. Their next big test figures to come Saturday at McCutcheon. 9. Cascade (5-3) LW: 8 The Cadets are starting to string together some wins. They ran their win streak to four last week with triumphs over Northview and Edgewood. The second game saw them battle back from a 2-1 third-inning deficit to win, 5-2, with Tara Gruca going 3-for-3 at the plate with two RBIs and a run, and both Lacie Godby and Grace Gray smacking triples. Godby allowed two runs (one earned) on six hits over seven innings with five strikeouts. 10. Brownsburg (6-3) LW: 10 Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades, but the Bulldogs were right there against Center Grove, fighting back form a three-run deficit to force a 6-all tie in the top of the sixth (Tatum Hunt homer got things started). A sacrifice fly in the bottom half was ultimately the difference. Big test Tuesday at Zionsville, then it's off to Mooresville and the Carmel Invite over the next three days. 11. Lapel (8-2) LW: 9 The Bulldogs placed third at the final Madison County tournament, bouncing back from a semifinals loss to Alexandria-Monroe with an 18-4 triumph over Anderson. The senior-driven outfit has been led at the plate by Laylah Gore, Tatum Harper and Ava Everman, with juniors Paige Stires and Delaney Basler providing quality pop in the lineup, as well. Ava Zdanowski has struck out 31 through her first 24.1 innings pitched; Karlie Jannings has allowed just 11 earned runs on 15 hits through 15.2 innings. 12. Fishers (9-3) LW: 11 The Tigers were held to just two hits and blown out by Noblesville, 15-0, but bounced back with wins over WL Harrison, Lowell, Logansport and Lawrence North. They return to action Tuesday against Westfield, then travel to Yorktown on Thursday. Hailey Kinder, Anna McGrath, Azstryd Alexander, Brooke Clayton, Kate Murray, Kendall Jordan and Frankie Jackson have all cleared 10-plus hits this season. Jordan, who returned from injury last week, is 10-for-16 with seven runs, three homers and nine RBIs. 13. Franklin Central (6-5) LW: 13 After falling to New Palestine during the week, the Flashes were on the cusp of a big win Saturday at Lake Central, jumping out to a 4-0 lead in the first inning, then scoring twice in the seventh to make it a two-run game, but they fell short, 11-9. Sarah Miller an Jadyn Tinsley had four and three hits, respectively, and FC bounced back with a 19-5 win over Edwardsburg, a top-ranked team out of Michigan. 14. Shelbyville (8-5) LW: NR The Golden Bears took losses earlier this month to East Central, HSE (4-0), Edwardsville (Ill.), Cascade and Eastern Hancock. They've since bounced back with four straight wins, including a 7-5 decision over conference foe Pendleton Heights. Senior Addison Stieneker is batting .545 with 21 RBis, 10 doubles, two triples and four homers, while Anna Shearer's driven in 18 runs and boasts a .450 average. Gracie Crafton, a sophomore, is 6-3 with a 3.90 ERA and 76 strikeouts through 66.1 innings pitched. New Palestine looms next week. 15. Lutheran (5-3) The Saints rolled to 8-2 wins over Lawrence Central and Trinity Lutheran. Speedway and a doubleheader at Mt. Vernon this week should provide a couple formidable tests following Tuesday's trip to Cardinal Ritter.
