Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

EDWARDSVILLE – Hardin Calhoun pitcher Sydney Baalman threw a very masterful game against Edwardsville on Monday afternoon, allowing only two hits while striking out 12 as the Warriors defeated the Tigers 3-1 at the Edwardsville Sports Complex.

Baalman had at least one strikeout in every inning, striking out the side in the second inning, and retired the last nine batters she faced in getting the win for the Warriors. Baalman was familiar with many of the Edwardsville players and knew what she was going up against.

“I’ve seen a lot of these girls in Select ball,” Baalman said, “so I knew they were good, and I just came out, ready to shut them down.”

Baalman usually depends on a rise ball to get batters out, but on this day, relied on her curveball to keep the Tigers off-balance.

Article continues after sponsor message

“Probably my curveball,” Baalman said. “They weren’t really swinging at my rise ball, and that’s usually my best one, but I really had to fight through and throw the curve.”

Being able to shut down a good lineup such as Edwardsville has was a good feeling for Baalman.

“Yeah, it was a good feeling,” Baalman said. “It really makes us really good test-up, that we beat an (IHSA Class) 4A school; it makes us more confident for post-season.”

Speaking of the upcoming post-season, Baalman has but one goal in mind for the Warriors.

“Our goal is to take it one at a time,” Baalman said, “and make it to state.”

As far as individual goals for her, Baalman is keeping it very simple and easy.

“My goal is to just go out there, and do what my team needs me to do,” Baalman said, “and hope that they back me up.”

More like this:

4 days ago - Stillwater Senior Living Male Athlete of Month: Armando Hernandez Has Warriors' Goal Against Kahoks

Oct 23, 2024 - Doria, Carter Score As 10-Man Collinsville Holds Off Host Warriors 2-1, Advances to Granite Regional Final

2 days ago - Stillwater Senior Living Female Athlete Of The Month: Jade Williams Excels For Granite City Girls Volleyball In Final Season

3 days ago - Stillwater Senior Living Female Athletes Of Month: Granite City Volleyball Girls Show Remarkable Growth Under Coach Hurst

Sep 6, 2024 - Calhoun Stuns Defending State Champs With Last-Second Touchdown