Editor’s Note: This is the 10th installment of the Sunday Spotlight Series in which we highlight the top performers from the 2026 season. Previously, we highlighted Matt Kurz, Joe Carey, Dylan Weinstein, CJ Alfano, Joey Karpowicz, Danny Gilroy, Taylor Nitsch, Ryan Tullo and Anthony DiNello. Special thanks to Lux Stone Group for sponsoring this year’s series
As far as role models go, Shane Meehan couldn’t have found a better one.
The Sayville catcher was fortunate to have built a relationship with a pretty good catcher from Sayville, Los Angeles Angels catcher Logan O’Hoppe. The 2018 St. John the Baptist graduate put himself on the map through sheer hard work and dedication, turning himself into a 23rd round draft pick by the Philadelphia Phillies and by 2022, he became the first LI position player in the big leagues since Reid Gorecki in 2009.
O’Hoppe played a hand in the development of Meehan from a good into a great player. That transformation culminated in the Sayville catcher being the recipient of the 59th annual Carl Yastrzemski Award last week at the East Wind.
It was a remarkable two-year run from the Stony Brook-commit from Long Island Champ to top player in Suffolk County. He batted .486 with a .557 OBP, 4 HRs, 28 runs scored, 25 RBIs and 12 stolen bases over 24 games for the League VI Champs.
Obviously, behind the dish his impact was felt as well with 40% of potential base stealers thrown out.
His coach, Joe Esposito, had high praise for his catcher:
“Shane is as deserving as any other player this year. He was our leader in every aspect of the word. He plays with confidence and has great respect for the game. He is also an AP scholar which just shows you the type of student athlete he really is. He is involved in numerous clubs and academic organizations throughout the school community. He is a special kid with a bright future on and off the field. Tremendous character and true role model for the younger guys coming up in the program. We are really going to miss him but will enjoy following his collegiate career at Stony Brook University.”
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
Was baseball always your No. 1 sport?
Baseball was the first sport I started playing, and even as I began playing football and basketball, it was consistently my number one sport, which led me to focus exclusively on baseball. I’ve always loved baseball in a different way than any other sport.
Who are some people who have had a positive impact on your career?
My parents have had an incredible impact over the years, sacrificing lots of their time, especially in the summer, so I could improve as a player. They have always been my number one supporters, along with my entire family. I’ve had incredible role models in my life – including Logan O’Hoppe who showed me how to work hard and stay consistent in order to achieve your goals.
Do you work with any private instructors?
I hit with Russ Rapp very often, and he has been instrumental in my development on and off the field over the past four years. I also have participated in CatcherMTRX every winter since I was 12, which has helped me grow my skills behind the plate.
Tell us about your experience with the college recruiting process and why you chose Stony Brook?
The recruiting process was definitely challenging, but what felt different about Stony Brook is that I felt Coach Martin and the entire staff had belief in me as a player.
With the benefit of hindsight, how have you enjoyed your time with Sayville?
Playing baseball for Sayville was the most fun I’ve ever had playing the sport. I was surrounded by an unbelievable group of teammates over the years and we made some incredible memories. The coaching staff always supported me, which put me in a position to succeed.
What did you work on this offseason?
I put a lot of focus on getting faster and stronger, so a lot of my time was spent training with Adam Belding. He’s an amazing person and continues to help me achieve my goals. I also spend a lot of time at CatcherMTRX.
What was the best baseball trip you’ve been on?
The best baseball trip I’ve ever been on was definitely Cooperstown. I really enjoyed spending the entire week with my teammates and coaches.
Favorite professional athletes?
I grew up admiring Derek Jeter and the way he carried himself on and off the field.
Favorite app on your phone?
Apple Music
Favorite restaurant on Long Island?
Birdie Bar in Northport
What do you plan on majoring in at Stony Brook?
Business/Finance
Favorite vacation spot?
Bermuda
Dream Car?
McLaren 750s