On Saturday, junior left-hander Cadyn Kummer started on the mound for Evergreen Park. He was aiming to secure the team’s first regional championship since 2017. Adding to the stakes, the opposing pitcher for Oak Forest was his cousin, Jake Kummer.

We were texting on Friday and Jake said, ‘I’m pitching.’ I replied, ‘So am I.’ It was going to be awesome, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. – Cadyn Kummer

Both cousins performed impressively, but Cadyn and the Mustangs emerged victorious. Cadyn pitched 4 1/3 strong innings, conceding two earned runs. Evergreen Park rallied late to secure a 6-3 victory in the Class 3A Oak Forest Regional championship game.

Noah Munoz was pivotal, earning the win in relief with 2 2/3 scoreless innings. He also shone offensively, going 3-for-4 and hitting the decisive two-run double in the sixth inning for the Mustangs (24-13).

Evergreen Park advanced to face top-seeded St. Rita (25-12) — a 13-1 victor over Bremen — in a Brooks Sectional semifinal at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday. This marked the fourth consecutive year the Mustangs and Oak Forest met in a regional final, with the Bengals winning the previous three.

It means so much for this team, the program, and the whole village. Seeing everyone cheering us on is huge for Evergreen Park. – Noah Munoz

Jake Kummer pitched for Oak Forest, allowing four earned runs over 5 2/3 innings with three strikeouts. His teammates Jeff Wessel added a single and an RBI, while Ryan Kruswicki contributed a single and scored a run.

Cadyn Kummer skillfully navigated the pressure, escaping the first inning with only one run allowed despite some challenges. He maintained composure under stress, an area he admitted needed improvement.

I’ve struggled with staying composed and being a good teammate. This game was a lot better. – Cadyn Kummer

Coach Andrew Massey understands the importance of Cadyn’s mindset.

Cadyn’s talent is clear. When he stays mentally present, he’s tough to hit. – Andrew Massey

Despite trailing 3-2, the Mustangs launched a four-run rally in the sixth inning. Garcia’s RBI single tied the game, and Munoz followed with a pivotal two-run double.

The new pitcher liked fastballs. I got one on the first pitch and made it count. – Noah Munoz

The win was a redemptive moment for the Mustangs, having lost to Oak Forest in previous years.

It was tough losing before. We did it for those past teams that lost. – Cadyn Kummer

His older brother, Tyler, had been part of those past losses.

This is the biggest accomplishment. My brother didn’t get to do this. – Cadyn Kummer

Overcoming Oak Forest and his cousin Jake was significant for Cadyn, one that will be remembered at family gatherings.

We’ve earned some family bragging rights. – Cadyn Kummer