Photo by Crystal Cox
Chase Estep is Comfortable Knowing Nick Mingione Takes Pride in his Faith
Chase Estep has had a baseball bat in his hands since he was three years old, but his decision to commit to Kentucky involved more than just baseball.
The 6-foot, 190-pound infielder committed to Kentucky in January 2017 and he’s stood firm on that commitment ever since. UK coach Nick Mingione offered Estep a scholarship during a visit last year and after speaking with the UK coach, it didn’t take him long to know where he wanted to be.
“Coach Mingione is like no other coach I have spoke with,” said Estep. “He made it a point to make me feel wanted as an individual person and player, showing my importance to his program.”
Estep, a native of Corbin, Ky., has had Wildcat blood running through his veins since birth. His father, Chad, was an outfielder for Kentucky from 1991-94. That connection, coupled with the baseball program, academics, and faith is what led him to choose Lexington.
“Kentucky has always been a place of interest due to past family interest and the relative location to home. The academics are slim to none here, which is another important thing in my choice of school. As for baseball, well we can’t ignore the success the University has had lately due to the changing in staff.”
The UK commit made a name for himself as a freshman at Corbin High School, where he batted .437 with seven doubles, three triples, and eight stolen bases. As a junior, those numbers are even better.
This season, Estep plays shortstop, bats leadoff, and is the closing pitcher for the Redhounds. He is currently hitting .458 with seven home runs (tied for fourth in the state) and 47 runs scored (second in the state). He leads the state in doubles and is top 20 in stolen bases and slugging percentage. Additionally, he owns a 4-1 record and 1.07 ERA on the mound.
His success on the field helped Corbin capture the schools third regional championship and earn a berth in next weeks state tournament.
One of the most impressive things about Estep is his attitude matches his talent. He’s one of the best young men you will ever be around and he fits the type of person and player that Mingione brings to Kentucky. While playing baseball, he not only develops his skills, but also his character.
“This baseball season has been one that has grown my character, personality, and leadership. Baseball skills will come with lots of practice, but it’s easy to lose focus on the importance of a teammate. My team has made major jumps for ourselves this season improving more then I ever thought we could.”
Like so many others that have committed to Kentucky the last couple of years, Mingione was a big reason. Estep was not only sold on Mingione the baseball coach, but also the person. The UK coach is strong in his faith and that caught Estep’s attention.
“Coach Mingione also takes pride in his faith, making sure that everyone near and far knows what he’s about. He is a very morally grounded and faithful man. Coming from a similar background myself, it is easy to relate and become comfortable knowing a coach takes pride and finds importance in his faith.”
When Estep steps foot on campus in the summer of 2019, Kentucky will be getting a vocal leader. He’s a solid teammate who leads by example, something that will help him at Kentucky.
As for goals, Estep has aspirations of being an MLB Draft pick in the future. He also plans to bring championships to Lexington, but he knows baseball is only for so long.
“A goal for myself is to become a great baseball player, but more than that, a better person. Baseball will only last for so long. I would like to continue my process of becoming a draft pick while also winning multiple regionals at the University of Kentucky.”
No stranger to hard work, fans can expect an instant leader the day he wears Kentucky across his chest. He will play third base for the Wildcats and fans can expect to see him leave it all on the field.
“Fans can expect a hard worker and a competitor. No matter the score or environment, I am confident that the team by my side can beat anyone set before us. I can’t remember a game I have left where I wasn’t covered head to toe. I will sacrifice my body and whatever else I can to help my team achieve whatever goals we may have.”
