Following Independence Day observances, traditions, and festivities, two things happen in sports, more than the old adage of corn will be knee high by the Fourth of July: There is clarity in status and paths in Major League Baseball (MLB); and football becomes a relevant point of conversation.
• In MLB, the Chicago Cubs must find an immediate solution to its losing ways the last 10 days, or turn thoughts to next year, and the Chicago White Sox continue to find a way to stay in front of Cleveland in the American League West and offer hopes of a postseason in Chicago.
• Football thoughts of course are late July Summer training camp for teams in the National Football League and the Bears will spend time in Bourbonnais and offer hopes of a successful season. What success likely means is a playoff berth and to play more than on game in the postseason.
• High school baseball continues, however, to receive notice in the Illinois High School Baseball Coaches Association (IHSBCA) 2021 all-State team. The largest 4A honor team includes players from the following: Ty Batusich, catcher, Joliet West; Nick Demarco, pitcher/shortstop, St. Charles North; Victor Izquerdo, first baseman, Lockport; Jackson Kent, pitcher, Lake Park; Jayden Lobliner, catcher, S. Charles North; Landen Looper, pitcher, Liincoln-Way East; Brady Louck, Plainfield East; Ryan Moerman, first base/outfield, Lockport; max Polad, third baseman, Lincoln-Way East; Matt Sconlan, outfield, Downers Grove South; Chris Worcester, shortstop, Lake Park. Next week, 3A, 2A, 1A.