The price of fame

Ryan Vice throws 97mph pitch at White Sox Game

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Ryan Vice pitches 97mph at the White Sox game

Ryan Vice pitches 97mph at the White Sox game

What would you pay to be an overnight sensation on Twitter? For senior Ryan Vice, that price was 6 dollars at a White Sox game. On August 12th, when the White Sox played the Royals, Ryan paid 6 dollars to throw 3 balls at one of the radar stations at Guaranteed Rate Field. He hit 94mph and 93mph on his first two throws, but on the last one he unleashed a 97mph fastball. After the game, a video of the pitch was uploaded on Twitter, and from there it became a hit. CSN, ESPN, The Chicago Sun-times, The Cube, and many more news networks have all had a post or article about Ryan. The fastest pitch in the actual professional game that was a mild 95mph in comparison, which amateur Vice beat by 2mph. When asked about the attention, Ryan said, “Every teacher has mentioned it and everyone is asking me if I’m famous.” Mr. Nowicki, varsity Baseball coach here at Lincoln-Way Central said in three words he would describe Ryan as a “freak of nature.” Undoubtedly, Ryan has a natural gift as he was throwing in the low 90s during his junior year. As the varsity boys baseball team went through the playoffs last season, Ryan came in to relieve in many key situations for the Knights. The Knights went on to win the Regional Championship and finish 2nd in the Sectional Championship. When asked what he looks forward to most this upcoming baseball season Ryan said, “I look forward to being back with the team and enjoying my last year here at Central and making the most of it.” He went on to say that he looks forward to helping the team in any way needed. After high school Ryan has committed to Western Michigan University to further both his athletic and academic career. Certainly, the Broncos look forward to having a flamethrower like Ryan added to their pitching staff in 2019. Until then, LWC will continue to utilize the live arm that is Ryan Vice.