Logan Fernandez: A Key Player in Mount Carmel’s Lineup

In a Mount Carmel lineup brimming with high-major Division I recruits, Logan Fernandez might be easy to overlook. Yet, the senior outfielder, committed to Triton, earns his place as the Caravan’s No. 3 hitter. “I’m just a kid from the city,” Fernandez noted. “I’ve always been like that, surrounded by teammates with more spotlight. I’ve never let that faze me. I just go out there and play ball.”

Fernandez’s performance has been a steady factor for the Caravan, holding a 30-10 record, as they prepare for a Class 4A state semifinal against Libertyville. With a .385 batting average, 39 RBIs, and 33 runs, he ranks prominently among his peers. He also boasts seven doubles and two home runs. “I’m just keeping it simple,” Fernandez explained. “People often overthink; I aim to play in dummy mode, not thinking much.”

“It’s kind of hard to intentionally walk anybody on our team the way our lineup is. One through nine, we’re all hitters,” Fernandez remarked.

This mindset proved critical in Mount Carmel’s 6-3 victory over Sandburg. When Sandburg intentionally walked Illinois recruit Joey Ireland to face Fernandez, he capitalized with a two-run double. Coach Brian Hurry expressed confidence in Fernandez, stating, “Logan has been such a great hitter for us. He’s steady and consistent.”

Fernandez’s journey includes transferring from Jones to Mount Carmel after his freshman year. “I played travel ball with some of the Mount Carmel guys and knew how strong they were. Joining them felt natural,” Fernandez shared. The transition has helped him and other seniors, who were part of a victorious team reaching state for the first time since 2015.

The fourth-seeded Caravan faced challenges in the Brother Rice Sectional, eliminating St. Laurence and the host Crusaders, building momentum before the eventful night against Sandburg. Senior pitcher Jake Matise emphasized their determination: “It’s draining, but we have two more to win. We’ll put everything we have into these last two games to win state.”

Fernandez remains ready to contribute. “I love this team and these guys; it means everything to get to state with them. We know our potential and need to continue our efforts,” he concluded.