By Bobby Narang
Nazareth Academy senior Landon Thome had unreal expectations to start his high school career.
As the son of MLB Hall of Famer Jim Thome, the younger Thome wanted to make his own name.
But his father’s ties to the community – playing for the White Sox and legendary status – made that difficult.
Yet, Landon Thome exceeded the lofty expectations with a stellar four-year varsity career for the Roadrunners. He started every single game and played a huge role in helping Nazareth to a 131-23 record in his career. He sparked Nazareth to a State title in his freshman season.
Thome, a Florida State recruit, is slated to be a high selection in the upcoming MLB Draft, and was named the Illinois Gatorade Player of the Year after batting .532 with 16 doubles, nine triples, eight homers, 35 RBIs, 63 runs scored, and a whopping single-season program record 54 stolen bases.
“Making a run with these guys, I’m just grateful to be part of such a good group,” Thome said.
Nazareth coach Lee Milano said Thome’s greatest gift was his unselfishness.
“He never once big leagued anybody, no matter who he was talking to on the team,” Milano said. “He was always willing to help. There is no arrogance in that DNA at all.”
But there’s plenty of talent, Milano said.
“His swing is off the charts,” Milano said. “He has no wasted movement from the time he starts the swing to when the barrel hits the ball. He is exceptionally quick to the ball. He has good power. It probably does help having dad as your hitting coach.”
Thome admitted he’s excited about his future after finishing ranked among the top 20 prospects in the Nation by Prep Baseball Report for the Class of 2026.
“A little nervous to think about but super exciting to have the opportunity,” Thome said. “Whatever choice it is, to have the opportunity to go through it is a blessing.”