By focusing on the task at hand, Sandburg’s Solomon Mitchell immediately settled his nerves.
In his first at-bat as a varsity starter, the junior second baseman came up with runners in scoring position for the Eagles, but he knew exactly what was expected of him Saturday morning.
“I’d had some pinch-hitting opportunities,” Mitchell said. “I felt prepared from all of the practices and offseason work I’ve done. I wanted to do everything possible to help the team.
“I trust my teammates. I went up there with no pressure and told myself to just get the job done.”
Mitchell definitely got the job done, driving in a pair of runs and also scoring for Sandburg in a 9-1 nonconference victory over Shepard in Orland Park.
Junior outfielder Quinn Durkin added two RBIs and senior pitcher Drew Drzonek struck out three and permitted just one hit in 2 1/3 innings for the Eagles (4-0), who have posted two shutouts and generated a 37-5 run differential in their first four games.
Sophomore designated hitter Max Pokrajac came up with an RBI single in the top of the second inning for the Astros (1-4).
Mitchell, meanwhile, forced a 1-1 tie with an RBI groundout in the bottom of the second. He also punctuated a six-run fourth with an RBI double.
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“Solomon shows up every day with a smile on his face and works at his craft,” Sandburg coach George Fear said. “He’s a special kid and a good player.”
Mitchell grew up with Durkin and junior shortstop Jake Tomczak. The trio played together in middle school together, and that chemistry has helped this team jell quickly.
“It’s not always easy getting called early in the season to pinch hit, but Solomon has stepped up in a big way,” Durkin said. “He’s been really hot for us in those situations, just getting hit after hit.”
Mitchell has shown an excellent feel for the game and the willingness to do whatever is necessary. The RBI double underscored his patience and understanding.
“My assistant coach said their pitcher was struggling with curve and other off-speed pitches, and he’d come with the fastball,” he said. “I just waited on the inside.
“I don’t want to sound cocky or anything, but I really feel like I’m the kind of player who could hit for power or contact.”
Baseball has been his passion project for as long as he could remember. His paternal grandfather, Luther, played semiprofessionally.
The game marks a rite of passage.
“I have this very early memory when I was probably about 3 years old and my dad asked me to come in and watch a game with him,” Mitchell said. “For as long as I can remember, I’ve always loved it.”
Solomon started out in youth leagues. He also mixed in basketball, which he played until his sophomore year before discovering that sport requires a full-time commitment.
Baseball became a natural extension of his personality.
“I’ve always known baseball was my thing,” he said. “To be honest, I don’t really do a whole lot outside of that, but I’m a very good student. School is important to me.
“I’ve always had confidence in myself and my ability. For instance, my defense is something I really want to work on and get better at. I know the more reps I get, the better off I’ll be.”
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Earning his first start only accelerated his ambition and increased his excitement for more chances to prove himself for Sandburg.
“Baseball has always been something inside of me,” he said. “Coming back in the dugout and seeing your teammates fired up and everything is the best feeling in the world.”
Patrick Z. McGavin is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.