A-K Valley Senior Spotlight: Fox Chapel’s Mitchell Epstein

By: Ted Sarneso
Monday, April 29, 2024 | 11:47 AM

The Fox Chapel baseball team has all the trust in the world in senior catcher Mitch Epstein.

“When we lost our catcher, he stepped in and has been starting ever since,” said Foxes coach Jim Hastings. “Mitch’s teammates pick up and feed off his confidence, and that’s big.”

Epstein performed so well that he not only earned his teammates’ trust but also was named first-team all-section last season and a captain this year.

“There was no better feeling to know I put in all that hard work and for me to be recognized for it was awesome,” Epstein said. “Being named captain goes to show the amount of trust the coaches have in me.”

Added Hastings: “He’s been so consistent for us. He has a terrific work ethic. He just keeps working and working on his technique behind the plate and his hitting.”

For Epstein, there is no offseason. He plays in games and tournaments year-round, with his only break being in the winter when he is in the gym working out.

“He’s an example for kids who think, ‘Well, we’re not the top of our group or class,’ ” Hastings said. “He’s shown that with a strong work ethic, they can become that. It’s been really great to watch him develop.”

The trust between Epstein and the Foxes’ pitching staff will be crucial to Fox Chapel’s aspirations for a playoff run.

“We have so much talent on the staff that I really just need to work with what they have,” Epstein said. “It’s my job to respond accordingly to how they’re pitching and help them to the best of my ability. I have the utmost trust in all of them.”

“Mitch is a baseball kid through and through. Knows the game and the ins and outs of what kids are throwing,” Hastings said. “A lot of our pitchers are underclassmen, and he has a calming presence with them. They trust him.”

Through the first 11 games of the year for Fox Chapel (8-3 overall, 6-2 in Section 1-5A), Epstein is batting .370 with a .486 OPS and six RBIs. Defensively, he has no errors and has thrown out four baserunners trying to steal.

Epstein took some time for a Senior Spotlight Q&A:

The team’s only nonsection loss is to Shaler. What’s that say about how well this team is playing right now?

We’re all banding together, and every win is gritty and hard fought. There’s no point in the game where we feel like we’re down or out.

How big is that mindset going to be come playoff time?

It’s going to be huge. I think we have one of the best pitching staffs in the WPIAL, which, come playoff time, is the most important factor to making a run. All the pitchers have their heads in the game, and the guys behind them play great defense.

What were the team’s goals for this year?

We want to make a run for the playoffs. This is the year for it. We have so many great seniors, so many great guys willing to contribute.

How did the team handle all the postponements earlier in the season?

When it comes to a shortened season due to weather, it’s our forte because our pitchers are workhorses. We have so many guys that can eat innings and perform in high-leverage situations.

What’s your typical approach at the plate?

Until I get to two strikes, I’m looking to drive the ball in the gaps. If there’s a guy on second, I want to send the ball to right field and try to advance the runner. Even if I get out, it leaves a chance for the next guy to bring him in.

When did you start catching?

I started in seventh grade. I tried out for the team and there wasn’t a catcher, so I spent the entire offseason learning the position.

Who are your favorite major league players to watch?

I really like watching J.T. Realmuto from the Philadelphia Phillies. Everything he does, I watch closely. Same with Henry Davis of the Pirates.

College plans?

No set school yet. I’m thinking of IUP. I’m going to major in exercise science and kinesiology. I’ll also walk on to the baseball team for whichever school I decide to attend.

Favorite high school memory so far?

Winning our playoff game against Mars last year. It was only the second playoff win in school history.

Piece of advice you’d want to leave your teammates upon graduating?

Don’t take it for granted. The offseason and the training can be rough, but it works out and you’ll thank yourself for the hard work you put in.

Tags: Fox Chapel