Defense is critical behind the plate. Just about every winning team has a strong defensive catcher that can lead his pitching staff. And if they can get some offensive production from that player, then it’s a bonus. Comsewogue freshman catcher Kevin Schnupp Jr. is one of those two-way catchers. He has been lauded for his defensive abilities, his leadership of the pitching staff but he also handled the bat extremely well in 2020. Here was his stats.
AVG: .413
2B: 19
3B: 3
BBs: 17
Rs: 34
OBP: .540
His father, Kevin Schnupp Sr, is the longtime head coach of Sachem East, where he helped lead the Arrows to the Suffolk County title in 2005. He has been pleased with the progress of his son:
“Kevin has really progressed so much over the past year,” he said. He has grown up on the sidelines of the Sachem East baseball program and has really used it to his advantage. He has become a student of the game. He mimics his work ethic after many of the top players that have come through our program and we are really fortunate that he has had such great role models (coaches and former players) throughout his playing years, so far, it’s a lot of fun for me being able to spend so much time with him working on-and-off the field. A lot of late night cage work or blocking drills in the driveway. I am really impressed with his drive,” he added.
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
Who are some individual’s that have had a positive influence on your career?
Some people that have had a positive influence on me are my dad, Coach Filippi, Coach Prisco and Coach Downey. Also, all the coaches at CATCHERMTRX including Coach Reyes, Coach Page, Coach Brennan and Coach McKay. Another coach who really taught me a lot and made me into a good baseball player was Coach Caputo from St. Joseph’s. Logan O’Hoppe also has had a big influence on me. My grandparents also have had a big influence on me.
Who are your favorite players in Major League Baseball and why?
Some of my favorite MLB players are Christian Yelich, Dustin Pedroia and JT Realmuto. These guys are some of my favorite players because I like how they approach the game and how they play the game.
Who are some teammates you have gotten close with?
Out of my whole baseball career I have always played with Luke Filippi and Logan Prisco. Us three always hangout whether it’s inside of baseball or outside, going from taking BP together and training together. Also this past summer, me and Matt Galli got close.
What moment has been the biggest thrill of your career?
Two moments stick out in my mind that were high intensity, big thrill plays. Over the summer, I hit a double in the playoffs to bring our team up and give us a big lead and seal the win against a good All Stars team. Another moment was in the fall when we were playing Team Steel in the semis and there was a play at the plate where I caught the ball from my second baseman, Matt Galli, and there was a collision at the plate and I held onto the ball to end the game.
Do you work with any private instructors?
I work with hitting instructor Chris Scura. Ever since I have been going to him he has really helped me become a good hitter. I also work with Coach Downey a lot. I have spent a lot of time working with him. Big props to my dad too – I hit with him a lot and he really made me a good player.
How have you enjoyed your time with the Titans?
The Titan organization has been great. From the coaching staff to the competition this summer, we played in a lot of competitive tournaments. With the Titans, I am always able to go up to the facility and hit whenever and that has been a big part. Their CATCHERMTRX clinic and their Prime Infield Clinic have really helped me out a lot.
What did you plan on working on this offseason?
This offseason I want to improve on my strength and flexibility. I got to Infiniti twice a week for that. I have spent a lot of time improving my swing. Also I want to polish my receiving, throwing and blocking as a catcher.
What are your goals for 2021?
I would like to start on varsity for Comsewogue and I would like to have a very successful 16u Titans summer ball season.
How would you evaluate your 2020 season?
I feel like I had a very strong season behind the dish and my hitting progressed throughout the year. I really enjoyed being forced to compete for a really strong Titans team.
Favorite app on your phone?
Snap or Instagram
Favorite musical artist?
Morgan Wallen
Any superstitions?
I hate washing my pants.
Favorite pre-game meal?
I really love chicken nuggets.
