Epic Pitching Duel Ends in Stalemate for South Elgin and Bartlett

Junior right-hander Jonathan Niksich has faced his challenges on the mound for South Elgin. Following a tough start to the season, he embraced a new mindset. ‘The beginning was a struggle and I decided to stop thinking,’ he explained. ‘Just play the game.’ This mental shift transformed him into a crucial pitcher for the team.

Niksich’s contribution was vital during a tense game against rival Bartlett. The game reached an astounding 14-inning stalemate with a score of 0-0, halted due to darkness. He entered in relief of ace Zacharia Barkho, who had eight dominant innings before reaching his pitch limit. Niksich continued the strong performance with six innings of relief, striking out 11 players, allowing only two hits and two walks. Barkho also struck out 13 while conceding two hits and one walk. Alex Muro added strength to the team with two hits.

Bartlett’s pitching matched South Elgin’s effort. Brandon Pelz, Aiden Mertes, and Joe Kennedy combined for 14 shutout innings, striking out 12 and allowing five hits and three walks. Batters Josh Colaizzi and Mason Leiterman both added singles and doubles. Only one player, Barkho, managed to reach third base from either team. Commenting on Barkho’s last high school game against Bartlett, Niksich remarked, ‘I just knew I was going to have his back. Based on how he performed, I knew I was going to do the same.’

South Elgin coach David Palmer acknowledged Niksich’s performance, stating, ‘Johnny was unbelievable. He wants that ball and that moment. To see him working at that pace is fun to watch.’ Bartlett’s Pelz also matched Barkho inning by inning. Bartlett coach Alex Coan noted, ‘He is our guy. We trust him in big moments. Two of the best pitchers in our conference. I expected it to be a dogfight, and it sure lived up to that hype.’

The match featured tense energy. ‘The momentum flipped every inning,’ shared Barkho. ‘Every team was starting off fresh.’ Palmer highlighted the energy exchange, remarking, ‘Their energy, our energy, back-and-forth. It was like, ‘‘All right, we have to match them.’’’

Niksich showed confidence when stepping onto the field. ‘I practiced for this,’ he said. ‘I knew I was ready for this moment. I just kept my energy.’ Coach Palmer watched with satisfaction as Niksich’s development throughout the season culminated in this unforgettable game. ‘He wants to work quick,’ Palmer noted. ‘He dominates. He trusts his defense. My better is better than your better, so I’m going to go after you 100%.’