CORBIN — Former Corbin High School and University of Kentucky baseball star Chase Estep made waves in the minor leagues this past season playing for High-A Affiliate Brooklyn Cyclones., triple-A’s Syracuse Mets.
The former ninth round draft played 79 games for Brooklyn this season, batting .219 with three homers, and 33 RBI while playing four Syracuse in four games, going 5-for-14 with a .357 batting average.
Estep reflected on his journey through different levels of the sport this past week while watching the Redhound football team go up against Frederick Douglass last Friday.
“First off, the biggest notice on my end was how those apart of each team handle business,” he said. “High-school into college, you notice a more serious team playing together, into professional you continually see improvement and attention to detail. I think every level has its pros and cons. I’ve taken things from high school I still use, college I learned more and added to my game and now on to minor leagues learning from others and hearing new techniques, approaches and thoughts.”
As he progresses in his career, Estep acknowledged the challenges of the daily grind.
“The grind is a very long, unforgiving journey,” he said. “The season is doubled compared to any other season I have had to this point, the time at the field has doubled now that school isn’t in session. However, it allows for more time to focus on recovery, diet and mental wellness.
“As long as it is, you really learn how to take care of your body and how to better prepare for such a long season,” Estep added. “This being my first full professional season, I can really tell what I can change in all aspects to recover, prepare and maintain.”
When it comes to his living situation as a minor league player, Estep said he loved the loved the living situation.
“It was awesome,” he said. “The new contract for minor league players calls for the team they play for to pay for all housing expenses. I was very fortunate to be close to the field in a very nice apartment, making living a very easy and new experience. They put us in a nice venue that made it very accessible to travel to the field and elsewhere as needed.”
Playing for the New York Mets organization has been a dream come true for Estep.
“It is a blessing from God I’ll never forget. This is what I have prayed, worked and dreamed for since a young age,” he said. “Although it is a business, there is still a sense of pride representing a team who drafted you and took that chance. I learned more than I could put into words this season about myself as much off the field as on. Such as hobbies to continue to improve myself, in all aspects as a son, brother, boyfriend and player.
“The season numbers weren’t what I had hoped, but the minor leagues is a preparation and development route to become a player I dream of,” Estep added. “So although a short term view was the year was rough, long term I think the value taken from failure far outweighs any result that may be expected now.”
Estep also looked back on a temporary promotion he received during the season
“I was actually not expecting that call at all.”,” he admitted. “We were in Greenville, playing the Red Sox when I was called into the manager’s office. This promotion was need based, so wasn’t going to be permanent. There were moves made higher up and injuries that had happened to make this occur. However, the things I learned in a week and ultimately the success I had was very much a blessing for next year, showing that I can play at that level. So although it was temporary, I was chosen and held my own which hopefully helps me at a later time.”
As he returned home to Corbin this past week, he expressed how grateful he was for the support he has received.
“I’ve been happy as can be coming home,” Estep said. “I have missed my family, friends and the city of Corbin tremendously. Although I enjoyed the big city for a bit, this is my home. I’m getting to enjoy Corbin football games supporting little brother Cam, Eastern Kentucky football games supporting sister Cady cheerleading, and spending time with loved ones. I will start lifting here ASAP and healing my body. I’m excited to bring the things I’ve learned back to help the Corbin youth who also has dreams of pursuing a career in baseball.”
Looking ahead, Estep remains focused on his ultimate goal.
“What’s next for me? Continuing on the path less traveled to hopefully someday play for the New York Mets, or whatever team the Good Lord has put forth in my plan, if his will is done,” he admitted.”I plan on enjoying the time at home with all of the people in my corner who support me from wherever they may be. I will work as hard as I can to make myself, my family and the City of Corbin proud.”
