News Detail

Baseball's Jonah Castle Commits to St. Mary's

11/5/2025

Baseball catcher Jonah Castle has committed to play baseball and attend St. Mary’s College in Moraga, Calif.

“I chose St. Mary’s because it felt like the best fit for me with their coaching staff,” said Castle. “I really jelled with them. Their program aligns with what I want to do in the future and with the goals and standards I have set for myself. It felt right. The coaches wanted me for who I am and believe in what I can do. St. Mary’s felt a lot like Brophy, and Coach Garcia told me it would be Brophy on steroids. It is a step up from Brophy and a place where I can make an impact.”

Castle is a three-year varsity player. He led the team as a sophomore with a .400 average, with 21 hits and three doubles. He followed it up with a .339 junior season at the plate that led the team with a team-best on-base percentage (.468) and slugging percentage (.492). He threw out seven runners and caught a staff with a 2.65 ERA.

“It means so much to be able to have the opportunity to play at the next level,” said Castle. “My ultimate goal is to play professional baseball in the MLB, if possible. It is a true blessing, especially in a time like today in baseball, where it is now harder than ever to make it to Division I. Not only that, but to find a program and staff like St. Mary’s is a blessing in itself. I have had many people tell me I couldn’t do it, that I was too small, and other negative things, so this opportunity truly means a lot.”

Castle will play for a program under Eric Valenzuela, who is in his eighth year overall at the school. The 2025 baseball season was one to remember for Saint Mary's as they captured their second-ever WCC Tournament Championship and earned a trip to the NCAA Tournament for just the second time in program history, winning a game over host Oregon State.

“Jonah Castle has been the heart of our team behind the plate for the past three years,” said Head Coach Josh Garcia ‘07. “A steady, dependable presence, Jonah’s calm demeanor and strong leadership have anchored our pitching staff and inspired confidence throughout the roster. As our catcher, he has built exceptional relationships with every teammate and takes great pride in his connection with the pitchers. Known for his work ethic, trustworthiness, and genuine care for those around him, Jonah embodies what it means to be a true teammate. We’re proud to celebrate Jonah as he continues his baseball journey at St. Mary’s College.”

Castle was a two-time AZSports360 All-Academic choice and plans to study Exercise Science and Kinesiology.

He is one of six seniors on the team who have made a college commitment.

“I really want to enjoy the season, leave my mark on the program, and allow for the culture to keep growing and be the program it is,” said Castle.

They open play at the 35th Annual Adam Donnenfeld Preseason Tournament in February.