Logan Fernandez: An Underrated Asset for Mount Carmel

In Mount Carmel’s baseball lineup, filled with high-major Division I prospects, Logan Fernandez stands out in his own right. As a senior outfielder committed to Triton, Fernandez may not present the most intimidating physical presence compared to some of his teammates. Yet, he is the team’s No. 3 hitter for good reason. Fernandez is accustomed to being underestimated.

“I’m just a kid from the city,” Fernandez said. “I’ve always been in the shadow of others with a bigger spotlight. But I never let it affect me. I simply play ball.”

Fernandez has consistently performed well for Mount Carmel, which boasts a 30-10 record. They are set to face Libertyville (29-10-1) in a Class 4A state semifinal at Slammers Stadium in Joliet on Friday at 7 p.m.

Logan Fernandez ranks third on his team with a batting average of .385, drives in 39 RBIs and tallies 33 runs. He has also achieved seven doubles and two home runs.

“I’m keeping things simple,” Fernandez stated. “It’s about sticking with what’s effective and not overthinking. I feel many get trapped in their headspace, but I aim to play in what I call ‘dummy mode,’ keeping thoughts at bay.”

Fernandez’s ability to capitalize on underestimation was evident during Mount Carmel’s 6-3 win over Sandburg in an eight-inning game at the Crestwood Supersectional. With a runner on second and two outs in the fifth inning, Sandburg chose to intentionally walk Illinois recruit Joey Ireland to face Fernandez. Fernandez responded decisively by hitting a two-run double down the left field line, advancing Mount Carmel to a 3-0 lead.

“I saw that as disrespect,” Fernandez noted. “I didn’t like the move. Intentionally walking players on our team isn’t easy; all nine of us can hit and make things happen.”

Coach Brian Hurry expresses unwavering confidence in Fernandez’s abilities. According to Hurry, “Logan has been a consistently great hitter. He remains steady and reliable, delivering for us time and again.”

Fernandez initially began high school at Jones but transferred to Mount Carmel after his freshman year.

“I played travel ball with some Mount Carmel guys and knew the team’s strength,” Fernandez shared. “Being part of it felt seamless, like I’ve always belonged.”

Fernandez, along with other team veterans, were sophomores when Mount Carmel lost to eventual state champions Providence in a supersectional in 2024. They have propelled Mount Carmel back to the state competition, a first since 2015.

“In two years, we’ve improved,” Fernandez stated. “Now, as seniors, this outcome was our goal.”

Mount Carmel, seeded fourth in the Brother Rice Sectional, had to overcome formidable opponents like St. Laurence and the host Crusaders to reach the supersectional before their intense match against Sandburg. Senior pitcher Jake Matise, destined for Lewis, acknowledges the journey’s intensity.

“It’s been draining, but two more victories and we attain our goal,” Matise commented. “We’re committed to giving everything for these last two games.”

Fernandez is eager to contribute to the team’s success.

“I cherish this team and the camaraderie with my teammates,” Fernandez remarked. “Reaching state together is invaluable. We recognize our potential and only need to maintain our current trajectory.”