Mahomet Family Dentistry Athlete of the Week: Marco Casillas
Heading into IESA Regional Semifinal play on Sept. 16, the Mahomet-Seymour Junior High baseball team is looking to capture the title after falling short in 2022.
Just a year ago, seventh-grader Marco Casillas threw a no-hitter over Champaign Franklin. And throughout the 2023 season, Casillas’ presence on the mound and at the plate has been felt for the 12-2 Bulldogs.
Casillas showcased his prowess throughout the season, consistently putting up commendable numbers. In a game against visiting Champaign Franklin, he delivered a double and a triple, setting the pace for his team’s victory. But it wasn’t just about the hits; he also showcased his ability to cross home plate, scoring two crucial runs in the process.
His performances didn’t stop there. In a tense encounter against St. Joseph, Casillas was once again in the limelight, smacking a home run and driving in two runs. When the Bulldogs took on Monticello, Casillas hammered a solo home run, further displaying his knack for scoring.
Earlier in the season, Casillas was instrumental in ensuring a victory against Normal Parkside. Driving in four runs, his two two-run doubles were instrumental in setting the pace for the game. He even had multiple hits in six of his eight games, emphasizing his consistency throughout the season.
Moreover, Casillas’ versatility was evident, as he also contributed with his arm. He pitched two hitless innings against Monticello, and used 19 pitches to retire six Normal Kingsley batters to earn a win.
