Whitehall’s Amya Espinal knew she had some big shoes to fill.

More appropriately, catcher’s shoes belonging to former and graduated standout - starter Aubrey Steiner.

So far, though, the sophomore has squashed any doubts.

Heading into last week, Espinal leads the Zephyrs in every major offensive category – batting average (.500), hits (16); home runs (2), RBIs (19) and slugging percentage (.781). She also has had a perfect mark behind the plate (1.000).

She is major reason for the Zephyrs’ success (10-5), as they presumably were in a rebuilding year after losing a number of key players from their district championship team.

Head coach Jeff Vivian has been overwhelmed by Espinal’s contributions. She began last season as a third baseman, but her transformation into a catcher began at midseason.

“Amya is a converted catcher,” said Vivian. “She is still in her first full year of catching, which is mind-blowing when you look at her stats. But that is a credit to her, her work ethic, and her athleticism. She loves the game and has really grown into the position with all the responsibilities that we require from our catchers. Offensively, she has been a real bright spot.”

Espinal only began playing the game a few years ago.

“I started playing softball in 2019, when I was 10-years-old,” she stated. “I see my role on the team as someone who brings passion, hard work, and heart to the game. This season has been a roller coaster, but it’s been full of excitement. I’m really proud of how much I’ve improved.”

Whether it be in the batter’s box or behind the plate, Espinal has a sense of confidence and comfortability.

“Lately, I’ve been focusing on my catching skills, becoming more agile and aggressive, and making every play count,” she stressed. “I truly started to feel comfortable on the field when I entered middle school — that’s when everything really started to click for me.”

Espinal credits the constant support of her parents, Arlene Lopez and Primitivo Espinal, for her success.

“They push me to be my best,” beamed Espinal. “Both of them have experience playing the sport, and they’ve always been my rock.”

Vivian is confident that his player’s best is yet to come.

“She has delivered in some of our biggest games,” boasted Vivian. “She leads the team in just about every offensive category. The scary part is that she is just scratching the surface of her talent.”