21 up, 21 down for Niksch

Posted On: 03/05/25

Sophomore Peyton Niksch threw the Cavaliers’ second ever perfect game on Sunday, March 2.

In 7 innings, Niksch struck out 16 Olney Central College batters. The only other perfect game for KCC was Coltan Carr in 2017 vs. Queensborough Community College.

Accolades have followed:

Niksch was named NJCAA DII Pitcher of the Week on March 5.
From The JBB, Junior College Baseball blog: “Peyton Niksch (Kankakee) (Purdue Commit) - Niksch authored a perfect game masterpiece: 7 IP, 0 H, 0 BB, 16 Ks. His 16 strikeouts in a flawless outing is the stuff of legend, leaving hitters utterly helpless.”
Recognition from Mountain Dew Park, in Marion, where the game occurred. It was the first perfect game at the college-level or higher at the stadium.

Mtn Dew Park "Huge congratulatioins to Kankakee CC's Peyton Niksch for making history by pitiching the first perfect game ever at the college level or higher at Mountain Dew Park! This incredible achievement occurred during a game on Sunday night, March 2nd, in game 2 of a doubleheader against Olney Central College! Congratulations Peyton!

One of Nicksch’s teammates captured the final out so the pitcher could post it to X.

“I am extremely proud of Peyton and all his accomplishments,” said Bryce Shafer, KCC head baseball coach. “Throwing a perfect game is one of the rarest feats in sports, and witnessing it was truly special. While this is an incredible individual achievement, it wouldn’t have been possible without the strong defense behind him and the support of his teammates. Peyton’s work ethic and dedication continue to impress me every day. This moment is a testament to the hard work of our entire team, especially our pitching staff and defense, who have been outstanding so far this season.”

The Cavaliers have an 8-1 record. Next, they play in Hillsboro, Missouri, with two games against Jefferson College. The team has its home opener Tuesday, March 11 at 3 p.m. against Waubonsee Community College. All home games can be streamed live. Visit athletics.kcc.edu for schedules and streaming information.