(June 2, 2011) Alex Kushel understands that building a play-by-play career in minor league baseball is about more than just broadcasting. That is why he is especially excited about his new opportunity. An STAA client, Kushel is joining the St. Lucie Mets as play-by-play broadcaster and sponsorship sales associate.
The Mets are the Class-A advanced affiliate of the New York Mets.
“If I’m able to deliver on the sales aspect, it makes me more of an asset to the organization because there are no guarantees [of employment] after the season,” Kushel says.
Kushel steps into a unique situation with St. Lucie. The team has been broadcasting only home games this season and they have been using volunteer broadcasters. The hiring of Kushel to broadcast all games, home and away, is the team’s first step toward rebuilding their broadcast operation.
Last season, Kushel filled-in behind the mike for a couple games as part of the team’s volunteer rotation. At the same time, he was interning at ESPN 760 in Palm Beach. When the team asked the station to suggest potential play-by-play candidates, Kushel’s name was on the list.
“This is a great opportunity to take the next step and further my career goals,” Kushel says. “I have a passion for broadcasting and for play-by-play. This is a tremendous opportunity to continue to work on my craft, stay on that path and get closer to my goals. To join an organization like the Mets is exactly what I hoped for.”
A graduate of the University of Miami, Kushel broadcast Hurricanes baseball while in school. In addition, he spent the summer of 2009 calling games for the Forest City Owls of the Coastal Plain League. His new gig in St. Lucie means Kushel will be reunited with his college classmate, close friend and fellow STAA client Alex Margulies. Margulies is in his second season broadcasting games for the Fort Myers Miracle, also of the Florida State League.
(Visit Alex’s STAA Talent Page. Alex has also had his demo & resume constructed by STAA).