By Blake Chadwick
Trinity Catholic senior Sam Vogel is one of the best players in the state and will be a key part in a deep playoff run this season.
“My biggest strengths are being able to keep my composure in high-pressure situations and helping coach my teammates so they can get better,” Vogel said. “Our team’s biggest strength is that we can have fun while also staying serious about what we want to accomplish. We have a great group of guys who are willing to compete and work to get better.”
Vogel has been around the game nearly his entire life. After beginning in youth leagues at a young age, he started playing travel baseball at eight years old with the Inman Crushers.
“Practice is a place where I can make mistakes and fix them,” Vogel said. “It’s where I slow things down and focus on the details so I can improve the weaker parts of my game. During games, my mindset shifts. I trust the work I’ve already put in and play with confidence.”
After falling short last season, Vogel and the Celtics have a clear goal heading into the new year.
“Our team goal is to go all the way and win the state championship,” Vogel said. “That’s been our focus since last season ended.”
Individually, Vogel hopes to continue his success on the mound while also contributing defensively in the infield.
“My personal goal is to win nine or ten games as a pitcher and limit my errors in the infield,” Vogel said. “I’ve been working hard on my pitching form and doing drills that help me read the ball better off the bat.”
