Silver Creek catcher Sam Mullen was an integral part of the Black Knights baseball team in his senior season, helping guide the team to a Section VI class title for only the fifth time in school history. Now, the Niagara County Community College commit, who Silver Creek coach Mike Janisch characterized as a “quiet leader,” has been recognized as the top catcher in Western New York. Mullen was chosen as the First Team Catcher on the 2018 All-Western New York Baseball Team.

Mullen hit .553 in 16 games this season, with six doubles, a triple and a home run in only 38 at-bats. Mullen was also walked 10 times. Mullen’s .527 batting average over the course of his four years on varsity is a school record. Janisch, one of the most experienced coaches in all of Western New York, was definitive on where Mullen ranks among the greats he’s coached in his career.

“Sam is the finest hitter I have had in my 45 years of coaching,” said Janisch.

Respected for his defense as well, Mullen is just as heralded as a defensive catcher as he is with the bat.

“Defensively, Sam blocks the ball well, but throwing is his best asset,” said Janisch. “Few runners ran on his arm.”

Other local standouts honored include Lake Shore infielder Jon Wilson, who was named to the Second Team, along with Honorable Mention selections including Ronald “Bubba” Brown of Brocton, Zach Rybak of Silver Creek and Nate Lockwood of Lake Shore.