MHS Baseball Wildcats make short work of Herrin for Manfredo's final home game

MARION - For Marion head coach Marty Manfredo, 15 seemed to be the magic number for his final home appearance of his 15-year coaching career at the helm of Wildcats Baseball.

It took only four innings for Manfredo's Wildcats to down Herrin, scoring 15 runs on 15 hits.

It was an emotional day on many levels. Not only was it Manfredo's final home game, but it was also senior night and Manfredo was determined that all 10 seniors would get in the game.

They did.

There was also a pregame moment of silence to honor former Herrin athlete Chance Karnes, who was tragically killed in an automobile accident on Saturday.

"That was a lot more important than my last game," said Manfredo after the game in a live interview aired on WGGH radio.

In his 15 seasons at the helm, Manfredo only posted one losing season. He chalked up eight seasons in which his team won 20 or more games. He also racked up five South 7 titles and at least five IHSA Regional titles.

He will retire with well over 200 wins.

The season isn't over as the Wildcats will travel to Mascoutah on Thursday before opening postseason play next week.