Athlete of the Week: Luis Espinal

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Cameryn Padron

Luis Espinal steps into the batter’s box, anticipating the incoming pitch.

Miguel Lemus, Staff Writer

The journey all started at the age of eight when he first encountered the game of baseball. The experience soon inspired Luis Espinal to follow in his families’ footsteps and pursue his passion for baseball. Espinal became part of the Gables baseball team his freshman year and currently plays as a pitcher and a third baseman. On the week of Feb. 25 through Mar. 1, Espinal’s hard work and dedication paid off when he became Gables’ Athlete of the Week after he picked up both wins in relief for the Cavalier baseball team and hit 8 for 11 at the plate in three games with 4 runs batted in (RBIs).

As Espinal was growing up, he was part of various teams like Team Panama, Texas Bombers and the Elite Squad. After an exhausting day of school, Espinal spends up to 2 or 3 hours at practice, which consists of many different strength exercises. In order to have a balance with his academics and athletics, Espinal works on his homework when has free time in his classes so he won’t fall behind with his grades. Espinal also expresses interest in other sports and outdoor activities in addition to baseball.

One his most prized memories of this season was when the Cavalier baseball team had a comeback win against Killian in their first game of the season. When it comes to his team, Espinal loves the fact that he is part of a group people that have the same passion and work ethic as he does.

Q: When and what inspired you to play baseball?

A: All my uncles, including my dad, played baseball when they were younger, so I thought I would follow in their footsteps.

Q: Do you want to have a career in the future that relates to baseball?

A: Of course, I believe baseball will take me to college and will help my future.

Q: Do you have any schools that you have in mind to go to for college?

A: University of Miami, University of Florida, University of Central Florida and the University of Virginia.

Q: Are you involved in any other extracurricular activities?

A: No, just baseball.

Q: What do you love most about being part of the Cavalier baseball team?

A: We work together as a team and, from that bond, we are able to learn.

Q: How do you balance athletics with academics?

A: I basically do all my classwork and homework in school and, after that, I just grind.

Q: How does it feel to be chosen as athlete of the week?

A: It feels amazing because I put all my hard work and effort every day to this sport.

Q: What is one of the best moments that you’ve experienced with your team?

A: Being able to win the game with my team.

Luis Espinal hopes to continue his journey at the University of Florida or at the University of Miami after graduating from Coral Gables Senior High School in two years. His remarkable potential as a young ballplayer, along with being surrounded by several other talented individuals, ensures that the 2018 spring baseball season will be an exciting one. Be sure to root for Luis Espinal and the Coral Gables Cavaliers as they aim to pick up where they left off and take a swing at a state championship.