As the team’s leadoff hitter, Filippo Baratta was ready to flip the switch for Lincoln-Way Central.
The senior outfielder was the first one to take a swing Monday against the scorching heat generated by Homewood-Flossmoor pitcher Antonio Brown Jr., a junior right-hander.
For Baratta, it was all in a day’s work.
“I just love attacking that first pitch and getting the next guys up,” Baratta said of facing Brown. “He threw strikes, but I’m out there making plays and that is all you can ask for.”
Baratta came up with what the doctor ordered for the Knights, contributing two hits and an RBI in a 3-0 SouthWest Suburban Conference victory over the host Vikings in Flossmoor.
Junior right-hander Alex Panos struck out four in six innings for Lincoln-Way Central (12-7, 7-2). He allowed just three hits and a walk. Brown, who reached speeds of more than 90 mph, struck out six while allowing four hits and two earned runs in five innings for H-F (10-15, 5-6).
A two-year starter committed to Southwestern Illinois, Baratta flashed his electric speed in scoring in the third inning on a fielder’s choice by junior designated hitter Austin Welsh.
With the Knights up 2-0 in the fourth quarter, Baratta closed out the scoring with a smash that ricocheted off Brown. It’s also part of what impressed Welsh.
“He just goes up there, has an approach, swings and gets on base,” Welsh said of Baratta, who’s called “Flip” by his teammates. “That’s what we need — base runners who help us create runs.
“This is how he has played his whole life. He can put the ball into play when he needs to. He only makes friends. He’s our No. 1 guy.”
Baratta’s speed and athleticism are crucial elements of the Knights’ offense.
“I’m ready to use my speed and do whatever is necessary to help win games,” Baratta said. “I treat every game like the playoffs and never let up.”
Lincoln-Way Central coach Ryan Kutt said Baratta’s talent for getting on base is impeccable. Kutt said Baratta has a .400 on-base percentage this spring.
“He’s always going to find a way to get on base two or three times a game,” Kutt said. “He’s a guy who just runs and flies around the bases. We always want to put that pressure.
“His work ethic and attitude just separate him from a lot of people.”
In that way, Baratta looks to create havoc on the bases with a frenetic, hard-edged style.
“I like to play hard and fast and create winning plays for the team,” he said. “I’m the same way out in right field. I love checking balls down, watch our pitchers throw strikes and make any play.”
Likewise, Baratta is that same brash player from last season.
The only difference, according to Kutt, is being more experienced and confident.
“I think the difference is maturity,” Kutt said. “He is the same exact player he was a year ago. Now that he is a senior, he’s a lot more vocal and has done a great job of being a leader.
“We’re an old group, with 16 seniors, but not a lot of guys with varsity experience. Having those stripes from last year is huge for us.”
Baratta began playing organized baseball at age 5. He was inspired by older cousins. In his free time, Baratta loves listening to music and lifting weights.
His favorite aspect is seeing teammates excel and take advantage of their opportunities.
“I love everything about the game, but especially what I call the ups and downs,” Baratta said. “It’s a difficult game to play well, so I go out there, play hard and do what I can to win games.
Patrick Z. McGavin is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
