New York Mets: Interview with 2018 15th Round Draft Pick Phil Capra

New York Mets 15th round draft pick Phil Capra spoke with Call to the Pen about being drafted and becoming a professional baseball player

I had the pleasure of speaking with New York Mets 15th round draft pick Phil Capra, a catcher from Wagner College. Capra is the first player from the school taken since 2016, when the New York Yankees selected outfielder Ben Ruta in the 30th round.

Capra made second team NEC for the third straight season. He led the team in average (.312), homers with 12, RBI, slugging percentage, homers, total bases and walks.

I had the chance to speak with Phil about being drafted and his experience playing college baseball.

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Congratulations on being drafted! What were your thoughts not only being drafted, but being drafted by the New York Mets as a native New Yorker?

It’s an absolutely unbelievable feeling being drafted by the New York Mets! Its definitely a special feeling being drafted by an organization from New York. It was always my dream to get drafted by a New York Team.

Growing up, who did you try to model your game after?

Growing up, I loved watching Jason Giambi and Jorge Posada play. Being a switch-hitting catcher like Posada I grew up trying to play the game the way he did.

Who are your favorite players to watch in the game now?

My favorite players to watch now are Mike Trout, Jose Altuve and Yadier Molina.

Thoughts on being drafted by a team where catcher is a need moving forward?

I think I’m very fortunate to have been drafted by a team in this situation. This is definitely a great opportunity for me.

Thoughts on potentially catching guys like Noah Syndergaard and Jacob deGrom?

I would love to have the opportunity to catch such elite pitchers like Syndergaard and deGrom.

What do you think will be the biggest adjustment you have to make to being a professional ballplayer?

I think the biggest adjustment will be the pace of play at the next level.

What are you looking forward to most about playing pro ball?

I’m just looking forward getting out on the field and competing with my new teammates.

How do you feel your time at Wagner will help you prepare for playing in the pros?

I think it has helped me a lot. Coach Carone, Noto, Greco and Pavia know so much about the game and they have taught me so much since I’ve stepped on campus.

Next: Top 10 Catchers in MLB History

Best player you played against in college?

Either Pavin Smith or Matt Thaiss from University of Virginia.

What do you like to do off the field?

I like to hang out with my family and friends, play video games and play other sports like basketball.

Thank you for your time!

You’re welcome. 

Make sure to follow Phil Capra on Twitter!