Winters’ Dual Ambition

Cullen Winters aims to secure two championship rings during his junior year at Mount Carmel. He played a vital role as a defensive back in football, helping the team clinch the Class 8A title in the fall. His contributions continue as his standout performances are propelling the baseball team towards a similar achievement.

Winters expressed his enthusiasm about winning titles in two sports within a single year, attributing his football experience as a catalyst for his success. “Winning it in two sports in one year would be pretty cool,” Winters said.

A Thrilling Victory for Mount Carmel

Winters’ contributions were crucial in the team’s victory over Sandburg in the Class 4A Crestwood Supersectional at Ozinga Field. He delivered a go-ahead RBI single in the eighth inning, leading Mount Carmel to a 6-3 win. His single ensured the team progressed, with Logan Fernandez adding a two-run double, Brady Holland registering a double and an RBI, and Jonathan Osornio contributing with a pinch-hit RBI single.

Image: Mount Carmel’s Cullen Winters (14) dives into home plate against Sandburg during the Class 4A Crestwood Supersectional at Ozinga Field on Monday, June 8, 2026. (Vincent D. Johnson / Daily Southtown)

Clutch Performances in Key Moments

Lewis recruit Jake Matise played a key role, overcoming a bases-loaded jam in the seventh to push the game into extra innings. His performance secured Mount Carmel’s spot in a state semifinal scheduled for Friday at Slammers Stadium in Joliet.

Matise shared his mindset during the seventh inning: “I just needed to get my team out of that to keep us in the game. I had to get us out of that jam, any way possible.” His approach paid off, as he kept his cool under pressure.

Sandburg’s Challenge

Sandburg, led by players like Roosevelt recruit Giovanni Longo, tied the game through key plays. Lucas Rosas’ sacrifice fly brought the score level before Matise’s pivotal intervention led that threat back.

Decisive Contribution from Winters

Cullen Winters also demonstrated his prowess by going 5-for-9 with three RBIs over two games at the Brother Rice Sectional. His performance has drawn praise from both teammates and coaches.

Mount Carmel coach Brian Hurry commended Winters’ competitive spirit, saying, “Cullen is a fierce competitor. Watching him in football, I knew those qualities would translate well into baseball.”

Winters’ efforts extend beyond the field. He shared his approach to preparation, mentioning the impact of extra hitting practice on his confidence.

Winters said, “I did some extra hitting the Sunday before the St. Laurence game and got my confidence up. The first pitch I saw that game, I hit a double. That started the hot streak.”

Winters and the team are now preparing for their upcoming state semifinal game, with their eyes set on clinching a state championship.