Herald Softball / Baseball 2019 - East Zone

2019 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS PREVIEW April 4, 2019

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2 — April 4, 2019

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

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2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

TEAM IndEx

Baldwin Bruins ................................ 6 Calhoun Colts (Bellmore-Merrick) ... 8 Carey Seahawks (Franklin Square) 12 Clarke Rams (Westbury) .............. 14 East Meadow Jets ........................ 16 East Rockaway Rocks................... 18 Elmont Spartans .......................... 19 Freeport Red Devils ....................... 20 Hewlett Bulldogs .......................... 22 Kennedy Cougars (Bellmore-Merrick) ....................... 24 Lawrence Golden Tornadoes ......... 27 Long Beach Marines...................... 28 Lynbrook Owls .............................. 29 MacArthur Generals ..................... 30 Malverne Mules ............................ 31 Mepham Pirates (Bellmore-Merrick) ....................... 32 Oceanside Sailors ........................ 35 Seaford Vikings ............................ 36 Sewanhaka Indians (Floral Park).... 38 South Side Cyclones (Rockville Centre) ......................... 39 Valley Stream Central Eagles ........ 40 Valley Stream North Spartans ...... 41 Valley Stream South Falcons ........ 42 Wantagh Warriors ......................... 44 West Hempstead Rams ................ 47

Spring Sports Preview A speci

September 8, 2011

Publisher StuArt richner Executive Editor ScOtt brintOn Vice President of Sales rhOndA GlickmAn Section Editor tOny belliSSimO Creative Director Editorial Designer Jeffrey A. neGrin Production Manager byrOn StewArt Production Assistant fAtimA rOdriGueS Art Director crAiG cArdOne Photo Editor chriStinA dAly Page Editors Jeff beSSen Contributing Sportswriters tOny belliSSimO Andrew mcclure Andrew cOen briAn kAchArAbA dAVid weinGrAd JOSeph kellArd GArrett d. uribe Emily Chelius EastRockawayHighSchool Photo by John Heckman On the cOver 2019 HIGH SCHO S P O R T S P R E V I EOL W April 4, 2019

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Cover Design - Jeffrey A. Negrin Photo - John Heckman Cover Photo - Brandon Turton Clarke High School

Baseball/Softball Preview is an advertising supplement to the Herald Community Newspapers. Copyright © 2019 Richner Communications, Inc. Published by richner communications, inc. 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530 (516) 569-4000 • www.liherald.com

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

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2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

Baldwin Battery to lead Bruins’ charge

By TONy BELLISSIMO

B

aldwin’s chances of becoming one of the eight Nassau Class AA playoff teams will depend largely on the performance of its battery, longtime coach Frank Esposito said.

Senior Reid Hoskins in a four-year varsity catcher coming off an All-Conference campaign, and he’s worked with each of the three projected starting pitchers for at least three seasons. “Reid should be a .350 hitter and he’s got a cannon arm,” Esposito said. “He worked really hard in the weight room during the offseason and he’s raring to go.”

Esposito’s hope is the pitching keeps the Bruins close in every game, the defense provides ample support, and the offense can scrape up enough runs to compete with conference foes Port Washington, Hicksville, East Meadow, Plainview and Long Beach. “We expect to make a run at the playoffs,” he said.

Senior righthanders Michael Ahearne, John Strategakos and Marcus Crawford comprise the starting staff. Ahearne recorded three wins in 2018 and added some pop to his fastball to go along with a nasty curve, Esposito said. He’ll play in right on non-pitching days. Strategakos, expected to hit third in the order, will handle the hot corner twice a week and take the bump for the series finales. Crawford will strictly be used on the mound and was effective when called upon in multiple roles a year ago.

Junior Anderson Moreno started in left field last spring and moves to center, where his speed and communication skills will come in handy. He’ll also spark the offense from the leadoff spot.

6 — April 4, 2019

Senior Patrick Hickey has varsity experience and assumes a bigger role in Moreno’s old spot, while senior Nick Scarduzio will likely play right when Ahearne pitches and also be used in relief.

Sophomore shortstop Tristen Seijo’s is a smooth fielder with range, and Esposito said his strong arm will be called upon in save situations. Junior first baseman Michael Paray earned a midseason call-up last year and led the team in batting average down the stretch. Senior Chris Estevez tops the depth chart at second base.

Lady Bruins flying under the radar It’ll be a different dynamic for the Lady Bruins, who lost their two biggest bats (Alex Burns and Yaya Spencer) and top arm (Spencer) to graduation following a 12-win 2018 season that ended with a Class AA quarterfinal playoff loss to Calhoun.

“We’re not going to hit as many home runs, but I think we’ll be alright,” coach Tom Llewellyn said. “We won’t have any easy games, but could be a sleeper team that surprises people. We’ll need to play solid defense and limit walks.”

Baldwin’s strength can be found up the middle, beginning behind the plate with All-State senior catcher Juliet Bernstein. She batted .593 with four homers and 24 RBIs a year ago and struck out only four times in 64 plate appearances. She also erased 18 runners attempting to steal. “She’s such a big advantage because her arm neutralizes what teams can do on the bases,” Llewellyn said.

Senior Katelyn Borello is a two-time Honorable Mention All-County shortstop who sets the table from the leadoff spot. She’ll also be called upon to pitch and

play center field. Senior Brianna Salvatore has played first and second base in previous seasons and could slide to shortstop, giving Llewellyn flexibility with Borello.

Salvatore brings an experienced bat to the clean-up spot after earning Honorable Mention All-County.

Junior Caitlin Zagas is another pitching candidate with a bit of varsity experience under her belt. She could also contribute in the outfield, where senior Nicolette Manzella is the lone returnee.

At first base, junior Merysee DeJesus boasts a high ceiling and got a taste of facing varsity pitching as a designated hitter last season. Senior Alexis Aponte has good range at second base and

Juliet Bernstein

Schedule

Matt Guilfoyle

BASEBALL

April 8 9 11 15 16 17 22 23 25 29 30

Hicksville @ Hicksville Hicksville East Meadow @ East Meadow East Meadow @ Plainvew Plainview @ Plainview @ Long Beach Long Beach

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 5 7 9

@ Long Beach Port Washington @ Port Washington Port Washington

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

May

Michael Ahearne provides speed to an offense that’ll likely need to manufacture more runs than recent seasons. Third base is wide open competition between junior Alexa Zuniga and eighth-graders Jessica Darcy, Taylor Darcy and Dylan Reyer.

The Lady Bruins will face Conference AA-II rivals Hicksville, Long Beach, Syosset and Plainview twice apiece and play crossovers against each of the five AA-I teams once.

SOFTBALL March 29 Long Beach

April 1 3 8 10 11 13 24 26 29

4:45 p.m.

@ Hicksville Oceanside Plainview @ Syosset @ East Meadow Farmingdale @ Long Beach Hicksville @ Massapequa

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

1 @ Plainview 7 Port Washington 9 Syosset

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May

Photos by Jeff Wilson

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

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April 4, 2019 — 7

2019 HERALD high School Baseball / Softball Preview

Calhoun Colts capable of deep playoff run

By JOSEPH KELLARD

C

alhoun baseball has another talented team that can go to higher places after last year’s squad underachieved and fell to Farmingdale in the Class AA quarterfinals, according to head coach Art Canestro.

“This year our chemistry is much better and I honestly think we have the ability to compete for a county championship,” he said.

An all-senior pitching staff will lead the program that drops from Conference AA2 to A1 to compete for a league title against MacArthur, Mepham, Herricks, Great Neck North and Valley Stream Central.

Ben Kovel, who led last year’s pitching staff with 32 strikeouts, will top the rotation with his impressive fastball. Anthony D’Andrea will step up as the No. 2 starter. “Anthony has a good arm and throws the ball hard,” Canestro said.

Other starters are Jake Edwards and lefty Matt Monahan.

Preston Reitz will pitch in relief.

Junior catcher Dante DiMarco is expected to wield a more productive bat and run and steal bases. Sophomore Timmy Mack will back up DiMarco behind the plate. Infielders include Edwards, who will move from right field to first base, senior Jake Marine at second, and D’Andrea, who will shift over to third to make room for sophomores Pat Sanchez, a varsity newcomer, and Peter Rogers.

“We’re really happy with how the two sophomores can play defensively,” Canestro said.

“They’re both quick and have very good arms and look very good.” Left field involves another platoon in seniors Val Pagano and Peter Sarantakos.

Senior Brandon Borrelli returns to centerfield where he 8 — April 4, 2019

covered a lot of real estate in last year. Sophomore Ryan Todd, a first-year varsity player, will man right field and, if needed, can play center.

Canestro expects DiMarco, Edwards, D’Andrea and Pagano to motor the offense again this year.

Last season, Edwards, DiMarco and Pagano all earned batting averages in the low .300s. Edwards and D’Andrea led the team with 15 RBIs apiece. “We’re going to look to those guys to knock in some runs for us,” he said.

Lady Colts are well-rounded Veronica Widmaier replaces Jason Boland, who guided the Lady Colts to the Class AA county finals and a conference title in 2018.

The program’s JV coach for the past three years, Widmaier believes she inherited a wellrounded team that can return to the counties this spring in Class A if players trust in their teammates.

Her initial focus is to improve their hitting.

Junior Lindsay Roman is a model of balance. She earned AllState honors last year as a pitcher who posted 130 strikeouts and a 1.29 ERA over 92 innings. Roman also had a team-leading 20 RBIs and .329 batting average with three triples and two homers.

Second-starter sophomore Meghan Vecchione can also play first and second bases and outfield. “As long as Meghan’s hitting is up to standards, I can see her being a constant presence on the field no matter the position she’s playing,” Widmaier said.

Starting junior catcher Hannah Aievoli works well with Roman and improved her offense enough last season that Widmaier anticipates she’ll come through in clutch situations.

The Lady Colts have versatility

in infield and outfield, and hitting will solidify who will play particular positions.

Shortstop Heather Berberich is an outstanding fielder who also lead the team with six homers last year. She scored 21 runs and generated 18 RBIs and a .684 slugging percentage. Fellow senior and power hitter Taylor Baumann will likely start at third base.

Roman is an option at first base, as are Vecchione and senior Lisa Anne Orlich, both of whom can fill in at second along with freshman catcher Gabrielle Razza.

First-time softball player sophomore Olivia Roberto will start in right field thanks to her outstanding athleticism and ability to learn quickly. Senior Liz Riccetti

Ben Kovel

Schedule BASEBALL April 8 9 11 15 16 17 22 23 25 29 30

Mepham @ Mepham Mepham MacArthur @ MacArthur MacArthur @ G.N. South G.N. South @ G.N. South @ Herricks Herricks

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

Heather Berberich

2 6 7 9

@ Herricks @ V.S. Central V.S. Central @ V.S. Central

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

will take her speed and talent at tracking fly balls to center field while she has invested considerable time at batting practice. Left field is a mix of promising young players in sophomores Molly Quan and Amanda Pratt, as well as junior Chloe McGuire.

SOFTBALL March

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

May

28 @ MacArthur 4:30 p.m.

30 @ East Rockaway 10:00 a.m.

April

2 4 6 9 15 17 25 27 30

Mepham Seaford South Side @ Carey @ Division MacArthur Plainedge @ Mepham @ Seaford

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 4 6 8 10

@ Clarke @ Kennedy Carey Bethpage Division

4:30 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

May

Photos by Ron Manfredi

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

April 4, 2019 — 11

2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

Carey Seahawks should be in hunt Senior Kevin Bell returns at third base, and could also see time at shortstop. t was an up-and-down season Senior Nick Giacalone, one of for the Carey boys in 2018. The the school’s top athletes, is playing Seahawks had a solid rotation, his first season of varsity baseball. but on too many occasions they Giacalone could see time at first couldn’t scratch out enough runs. base or on the mound. FleetThey fell in the second round of the footed senior Riley DeMeo can get Class A playoffs. on base and make things happen.

It’s a new day as long time DeMeo is in the outfield rotation.

New Hyde Park coach Doug Robins takes the helm for the Seahawks.

Lady Seahawks set Carey will do battle in Conference to defend crown A2, a league that includes Garden A talented, experienced softCity, New Hyde Park, Jericho, ball team will take the diamond for Bellmore JFK, and Manhasset. the defending Class A champion Robins is optimistic. “We lost Lady Seahawks. Carey, which a lot to graduation, including our bested Mepham in a best-of-three starting rotation, but things are series to capture its third county going very well,” Robins said. “As title in 2018, has 14 returnees on always, the goal is to compete for its roster, including 12 seniors. the conference title and have a The Lady Seahawks should be in deep run in the playoffs.” the mix for Nassau supremacy Junior center fielder Garrett when the playoffs come around.

Scavelli earned All-County honors They’ll compete in Nassau Conferas a sophomore, hitting .456 and ence A1 with MacArthur, Bellmore playing stellar defense. Scavelli, JFK, Mepham, and Seaford. who is battling for a slot in the “We’re using experience starting rotation, will likely hit third to our advantage,” Carey coach or fourth.

Anthony Turco said. “The girls Senior Connor Huckemeyer have taken the initiative by doing has the inside track to be the No. 1 a lot of work with strength and starter. Huckemeyer features a two- conditioning, and have trained seam fastball, slider, and change, during the offseason on their own. and could DH or play shortstop We’re ready to go.” when he’s not on the mound.

Carey has a deep and verSenior Matt Cosgrove will occupy satile pitching staff. Senior Jaclyn a slot in the middle of the batting Schemmer, a hard-thrower who order. Cosgrove will play first base, hits her spots, will lead the group. and see time on the mound either Schemmer also figures to be a as a starter or reliever. fixture in the middle of the batting Left fielder James Stein could order. When she’s not pitching, emerge as the leadoff hitter, and Schemmer plays a solid first base. will also pitch. Twin brother Daniel Junior left hander Arianna Milis a middle infielder who could also lan has a ton of movement on her hit at the top of the order. Robins is deliveries, and keeps opponents high on right fielder Devin Hartz. off balance. When she’s not in the Juniors Frank Scarantino and circle, Millan, who will hit third or James Daly are vying for time fourth in the order, will play first behind the plate, with senior base or the outfield. Left fielder Mike Guglielmi is also in the mix.

Julia Riccobono may also see time

By ANDREW MCCLURE

I

12 — April 4, 2019

at pitcher.

Senior catcher Julia Parinello has a strong arm and swings the bat with authority. Sophomore Destiny Nardello is one of best hitters in the lineup. Nardello provides Turco with versatility by being able to play nearly anywhere.

The team will look for a lot from smooth-fielding Giana Costagliola. The senior shortstop handles the bat well and has some pop.

Costagliola will be joined in the middle infield by senior second baseman Catherine

Julia Parinello

Schedule BASEBALL

April 8 @ Kennedy 9 @ Kennedy 11 Kennedy 15 @ Manhasset Matt Guilfoyle 16 Manhasset 17 @ Manhasset 22 New Hyde Park 23 @ New Hyde Park 25 New Hyde Park 29 Jericho 30 @ Jericho

May

Garrett Scavelli Hammer.

With Riccobono and senior center fielder Francesca Nunges manning two of the slots, the Lady Seahawks will be strong in the outfield. Seniors Gianna Morfesi, Erin Mehr, and Catherine Acierno are all fighting for time in the outfield.

Depth will be a plus for Carey.

Senior Brianna Stanton, junior Francesca Marchese, and sophomore Alyssa Cowen are all capable players.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

2 6 7 9

Jericho Garden City @ Garden City Garden City

5:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 28 Division 30 @ Plainedge

4:45 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

2 4 5 9 11 15 17 25 27 30

Seaford @ MacArthur Clarke Calhoun @ Bethpage @ Mepham @ Division East Rockaway @ Seaford MacArthur

4:45 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 6 8 10

@ South Side @ Calhoun Kennedy Mepham

April

May

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

2019

Nassau CouNty BaseBall CoNfereNCes ConferenCe AA-1

Freeport Red Devils Hempstead Tigers Massapequa Chiefs Syosset Braves Farmingdale Dalers Oceanside Sailors

ConferenCe AA-2

Baldwin Bruins East Meadow Jets Hicksville Comets Long Beach Marines Plainview Hawks Port Washington Vikings

CoUnTYWIDe

Elmont Spartans

Friends Academy Quakers

G.N. North Blazers Lawrence Tornadoes Roosevelt Rough Riders Sewanhaka Indians Uniondale Knights Westbury Dragons West Hempstead Rams

ConferenCe B

Gianni Macchio Mepham High School Photo by John Heckman

TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

Carle Place Frogs C.S. Harbor Seahawks East Rockaway Rocks Malverne Mules Oyster Bay Baymen Wheatley Wildcats

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

ConferenCe A-1

Calhoun Colts Herricks Highlanders G.N. South Rebels Mepham Pirates MacArthur Generals V.S. Central Eagles

ConferenCe A-2

Carey Seahawks Garden City Trojans Jericho Jayhawks Kennedy Cougars New Hyde Park Gladiators Manhasset Indians

ConferenCe A-3

Bethpage Golden Eagles Glen Cove Big Red Hewlett Bulldogs Plainedge Red Devils Roslyn Bulldogs South Side Cyclones

ConferenCe A-4

Division Dragons Floral Park Knights Lynbrook Owls North Shore Vikings V.S. North Spartans Wantagh Warriors

ConferenCe A-5

Clarke Rams Island Trees Bulldogs Locust Valley Falcons Mineola Mustangs Seaford Vikings V.S. South Falcons

April 4, 2019 — 13

2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

Clarke Rams back among leading contenders

By TONy BELLISSIMO

P

erennial Nassau Class A title contender Clarke is coming off its 17th conference championship in the last 21 seasons and will be counting on a deep roster to make a deep playoff run this spring.

“We’ve been in contention, we just haven’t gotten over the top,” coach Tom Abruscato said of the Rams’ recent success. “Class A is incredibly deep. Almost any team that gets into the playoffs has a legitimate shot to win the whole thing.”

Clarke’s 17-win 2018 campaign ended in the quarterfinals.

“Our hopes are always high,” Abruscato said.

Conference A-5 rivals Island Trees, Seaford, Locust Valley, Mineola and Valley Stream South will face an All-County battery in their series’ openers against the Rams.

Senior pitcher Brendan Turton (5-2, 1.49 ERA, 49 strikeouts in 47 innings) and junior catcher Chris Giardino, both captains, are coming off huge seasons.

Turton, who grew to over 6-feet and added muscle during the offseason, features a fastball in the mid-80s, a knuckle-drop and an outstanding change-up, Abruscato said. Giardino, who may get an occasional breather from senior Steve Lee, is a topnotch blocking backstop with a middle-of-theorder bat. “His leadership ability is awesome,” the coach said of Giardino, who could also see work at third base.

Senior All-Conference selection Chris Lydan returns as the No. 2 starter. A lefty with a combination of power and craftiness, he went 5-2 with a 1.27 ERA a year ago. Among the candidates to round out the starting staff include

juniors Brian Sullivan, Justin Goetz and Joe Salata, as well as sophomore Tyler Cox. The latter is already drawing interest from colleges after batting .377 with a team-leading 23 runs scored as a freshman. “Tyler is a five-tool player,” Abruscato said of Cox, who will hit third and likely play shortstop.

Junior CJ Cumbo returns at second base with a nifty glove, while junior Pavlos Papoutsakis takes over full time at first. There’s no shortage of outfield choices with seniors Derek Smith (.534 on-base percentage) and Anthony Gilluvio and juniors Nick Campagnuolo and Jack Layburn in the fold.

Lady Rams boast quality pieces

Coming off a .500 season that ended with a hard-fought playoff loss to then two-time defending Long Island champion MacArthur, the Lady Rams bring back plenty of talent and will try to flip results of close games.

“Just about every position is up for grabs,” coach Rachel Barry said. “We have a lot of pitching options and look sharp defensively. There’s also potential to generate a lot of offense. We have some strong and consistent, aggressive bats.”

Probably the most locked in position player, Barry said, is sophomore catcher Cheralyn Dusharme. “She can block like a wall and has a strong arm and quick reflexes,” Barry noted. “She’s growing into her big swing.”

Up to four pitchers will send deliveries Dusharme’s way. They include All-Conference juniors Arianna Fracchioni and Alex Karavias, senior Jessica Urso and sophomore Lola Reese. “As of now, we don’t have a No. 1 and we don’t have a No. 4,” Barry explained. “We can

pitch any of them.”

Fracchioni will also play third base and hit in the middle of the order. Karavias patrolled the outfield last spring but is more likely to be in the pitching circle and first base. Urso is back from an injury that hampered her in 2018, while Reese was a shutdown pitcher at the JV level.

Junior Toniann Servider returns and is quick and a strong defensive shortstop who also has experience as an outfielder. At second base, junior Kayla Connolly saw a good deal of varsity action a year ago. Reese could also see time at the position.

Sophomore Christina Goglia can play either corner spot and swung a solid bat for the JV. Barry is counting on senior

Chris Giardino

Schedule BASEBALL April 8 V.S. South 9 @ V.S. South 11 V.S. South 15 Seaford 16 @ Seaford 17 Seaford 22 @ Island Trees Matt Guilfoyle 23 Island Trees 25 @ Island Trees 29 @ Locust Valley 30 Locust Valley

May

Arianna Fracchioni Natalie Long to get the offense going from the top of the order. She’s a lefty slapper who runs well and provides leadership on and off the field. Senior Leanne Tallon is one of the team’s most versatile players and is capable of contributing in the outfield, at shortstop and even behind the plate.

Clarke will battle Plainedge, Bethpage, East Rockaway, South Side and Kennedy is a competitive Conference AB-II.

2 6 7 9

@ Locust Valley Mineola @ Mineola Mineola

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 28 @ Plainedge 30 Division

4:45 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

2 4 5 9 11 15 17 25 27 30

@ South Side @ Bethpage @ Carey Kennedy Seaford East Rockaway Plainedge @ MacArthur South Side Bethpage

5:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

1:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 6 8 10

Calhoun @ Kennedy @ Mepham @ East Rockaway

April

May

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman

14 — April 4, 2019

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

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April 4, 2019 — 15

2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

EaSt MEadow Jets rely on talented staff man left field.

The table setters at the plate are Kennedy, Molina and Cucchiara, all skilled at taking pitches ast Meadow will lean on and all flirted with .500 on-base a pitching staff of versatile percentages last season. Molina righties who aim to help cap- had the hottest bat with a teamture the program’s first Conference high .397 average and 25 hits.

AA2 baseball title since 2015.

Other offensive threats inSenior Charlie Cucchiara was clude Patterson, a power and gap an All-County selection and Diahitter who had a team-leading 19 mond Award pitching finalist after RBIs and seven doubles last year, he struck out 80 batters, walked and Fried and left-handed hitter five and gave up 30 hits in 49 Bernstein both had 11 RBIs. innings to secure a 1.28 ERA last season. His command and ability Lady Jets aim for to throw economically for seven Three-Peat innings puts him at the top of the rotation.

The Lady Jets have high hopes “Charlie is a very polished that a trio of award-winners last pitcher who can hit corners and season will help propel them to move the ball up and down within their third consecutive Nassau and the strike zone,” coach John MarLong Island titles in 2019. ciante said.

With a pitching staff a work Armed with a high-velocity in progress, coach Stew Fritz will fastball and strong breaking pitch, need junior shortstop Jenna Laird, junior Sean Kennedy struck out junior leftfielder Julianna Sanzone 15, gave up 12 hits to post a 1.86 and senior third baseman Amy ERA over 15 innings as the team’s Mallah to lead their team ranked top reliever in 2018 and will now fourth in Conference AA1. step into the second starter’s role.

Laird generated a .663 Senior Matt Fried and junior Sean batting average, 14 doubles, six Brody will fill in as third starters triples, four home runs and 34 RBIs and first relievers, while junior to earn county Player of the Year Daniel Molina and seniors Eric honors and her second consecutive Bernstein and Anothy Rigolli will first-team All-State selection in also pitch in relief.

2018.

Senior Tyler Patterson, an All“I’ve coached for 38 years Conference selection in 2018, and and Jenna is as good a player and junior Dylan Pohl will call signals person that I’ve ever coached,” behind the plate.

Fritz said. “She’s a gem.”

Cucchiara will rotate with An All-County selection last junior Dylan McDonnell at first year, Sanzone posted a .443 averbase and Bernstein will do the age and 31 RBIs. Mallah earned same with junior Rob Wakely at All-County honors as much for her third. Fried and senior Jeffrey Liu team-leading five home runs, 28 will get the bulk of the time at sec- RBIs and .356 average as she did ond, while Molina and sophomore for her exceptional glove.

Anthony Gentile will platoon at Senior Julia Cuttone is moving shortstop. up to the top starting pitcher role Kennedy will return to after All-County pitcher Christina centerfield and Patterson to right.

Loeffler left for college. Cuttone’s The trio of Molina and seniors Dan stuff features good ball control and Majkowski and Hunter Arm will movement.

By JOSEPH KELLARD

E

16 — April 4, 2019

“Julia has been working hard all these years for this moment and I believe she’ll come through,” Fritz said.

Sophomore Alexandra Kelly is a first-year varsity player who may pitch behind Cuttone and junior Stephanie Christoforatos and freshman Malia Molina will round out the rotation.

Cuttone’s twin sister, Rosanna, will serve as the primary catcher with Sanzone and junior Amanda Thompson as her backups.

Thompson will join Laird and Mallah in the infield as the incumbent first baseman who will compete for playing time there with Kelly. Junior Isabella Shepherd will vie for time at second base, where she won All-Conference honors last year, with Molina and varsity newcomer junior Alexandria

Amy Mallah

Schedule April

BASEBALL

8 @ Long Beach

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

15 @ Baldwin 4:45 p.m.

16 Baldwin 4:30 p.m.

17 @ Baldwin 4:45 p.m.

22 Port Washington 4:45 p.m.

23 @ Port Washington 4:45 p.m.

25 Port Washington 4:45 p.m.

29 Plainview 4:30 p.m.

30 @ Plainview 4:45 p.m.

9 Long Beach Matt Guilfoyle 11 @ Long Beach

May

Charlie Cucchiara Saladino.

Sanzone will share the outfield with freshman Grace Pohalski, who will take her live arm to right field when Molina is on the mound, and junior Stephanie Christoforatos will return to center field.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

2 6 7 9

Plainview Hicksville @ Hicksville Hicksville

4:30 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 28 @ Long Beach 30 Oceanside

April

4 10 11 12 14 17 19 21 23 25 27

Baldwin @ Farmingdale @ Massapequa Syosset @ Hicksville Plainview @ Calhoun Port Washington Long Beach @ Oceanside Massapequa

May

2 @ Baldwin

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

April 4, 2019 — 17

2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

EASt RockAwAy Talented Rocks bring high expectations

By ANDREW MCCLURE

A

fter a season that saw the Rocks capture the county, Long Island, and regional championships, expectations are high at East Rockaway. The Rocks return all but one player from a team that won 15 games.

“Having a year like last season builds excitement and confidence,” coach James Hickey said.

“The talent is certainly there. We have to stay focused, and never lose sight of the fact that it took so much hard work to get where we were last year.”

As many as 10 players could find themselves pitching.

Stefano Cilluffo had a 6-1 record as a junior. He’s always around the plate with his fastball and curve.

When he’s not on the mound, the All-County shortstop is flashing leather.

Dan Del Valle pitched well prior to suffering an injury. The senior right hander gave league champion Wheatley one of its two losses. Del Valle swings a solid bat and is an exceptional outfielder.

Junior left hander Joe Acampora pitched in big spots last season.

Kyle Barth, who can play anywhere on the field, and fellow junior Tommy Kelly are also vying for time on the mound.

Junior Aidan O’Connor is the hardest thrower on the staff, and could emerge as the team’s No. 1. Senior Bryan Morganthaler pounds the zone and always has he plan. When he’s not pitching, Morganthaler plays second base.

Junior southpaw Chris Perri pitched a gem in leading the Rocks to the regional title.

Dylan Henshaw was the team’s top pitcher as a sophomore, but arm trouble kept him off the mound as a junior. Henshaw will pitch and play a corner outfield position. Both he and Cilluffo 18 — April 4, 2019

recorded 20 RBI, 20 stolen bases, and 20 runs scored as juniors.

Junior Matt Perri is a threeyear starter behind the plate. Perri is a solid defensive backstop and a strong situational hitter. Sophomore Anthony Piazza can play both third and short, and is a threat at the plate. Junior Rob Ventura will also man the hot corner. Junior Caleb Alvarez and Anthony Romano are both fighting for time.

Lady Rocks earn rise in conference

strong arm. Ramirez will catch and play third base.

Shortstop Hunter Vertuccio is the backbone of the infield.

The fleet-footed junior is nearly impossible to throw out when she hits the ball on the ground.

Second baseman Leanne Wright is nursing an injury and hopes to return before long. Freshman Gianna Mancusi hit well as an eighth-grader.

Mancusi can play second, third or the outfield.

Junior outfielder Skylar Gomes earned All-Conference honors. Gomes hit well in the

Success wasn’t limited to the baseball diamond in 2018. The Lady Rocks shared the league title, won the Nassau small schools championship, and claimed Long Island supremacy for the third consecutive year.

East Rockaway, which went 17-5, returns the nucleus of its team.

It will move up to AB-II where it will compete with Bellmore JFK, Bethpage, Plainedge, Clarke, and South Side.

A mix of veterans and newcomers will look to perform well against very strong competition.

“Every game is going to be tough in this conference, so we’ll have to play well to win,” coach Joe Lores said. “We earned our way here, Siobhan Perini and have a pitcher who is as good as anyone out there.” clutch as a sophomore. Senior cenSenior Emily Chelius, a ter fielder Najeri Felton runs down five-year starter and three-time All-County honoree, returns in the everything in the gaps. Senior Caroline Slade has improved and is circle. The two-time league MVP should rewrite all of the program’s looking for time in the outfield.

Emma Pollackov was a pitching records before season’s pleasant surprise in in 2018. She’s end, and her bat is a good as hoping have things carryover as any the school has seen. Chelius a sophomore. Junior Katherine fanned 12 batters in the Long Melissinos and Makenna Lonergan Island championship game. are vying for time in the outfield.

Siobhan Perini, an All-County Lonergan will be the team’s second recipient, hit right around .400 as pitcher. a junior. Perini did a great job behind the plate last season, but may be just as valuable at first base.

Freshman Adriana Ramirez has a HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

Matt Perri

Schedule BASEBALL April 8 9 11 15 16 1 7 22 23 25 29 30

Carle Place @ Carle Place Carle Place @ Wheatley Wheatley @ Wheatley @ C.S. Harbor C.S. Harbor @ C.S. Harbor Malverne @ Malverne

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 6 7 9

Malverne @ Oyster Bay Oyster Bay @ Oyster Bay

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May

SOFTBALL March 28 @ South Side 30 Calhoun

5:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

2 4 9 11 15 16 25 27 30

Bethpage Kennedy @ Plainedge Division @ Clarke South Side @ Carey @ Bethpage @ Kennedy

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 3 6 8 10

Seaford @ Mepham Plainedge @ MacArthur Clarke

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

April

May

Photos by John Heckman

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

Elmont Large junior class leads Spartans catcher and a corner outfield spot.

Rotation-wise the Spartans look stable, with Patterson heading a four-man crew that includes team-wide transfusion conjunior righthander Ricardo Fortuna tinues at Elmont - following – also a utility infielder – along last year’s roster turnover with Peguero (RHP) and Melendez, ushering in an underclassman core. and senior righty Starlyn Rodriguez Replacing former Spartans in a flexible fifth starting slot. skipper Ed McCormack – whose “Our pitching’s pretty deep,” said club went 3-9 last year in the Leger, who noted further: “Virtually Nassau Countywide Conferanybody [on the team] can come ence – new baseball coach Greg on in relief.”

Leger will work with a seasoned Concluded Leger: “We’re corps composed of mostly juniors, building a winning mindset here. but buoyed by a trio of senior These kids really want to challenge returners, undertaking the latest themselves. It looks like it’s going phase of what Leger called a bid to to be a fun season.” “rejuvenate” the program.

“I can’t speak on behalf of last year’s team, but I know we Lady Spartans build have kids and coaches who are off breakout year committed to getting better,” said After narrowly missing Leger, ahead of his team’s return postseason play in Conference A-V to Countywide action. “Our goal back in 2017 (despite a dominant, is to play competitively and win turnaround effort that yielded a more games than last year. I think 10-4 record), the Lady Spartans we have a good cast of committed changed softball leagues but didn’t baseball players to do that this alter their trajectory – breaking year and, hopefully, for years to through undefeated last year in the come.” winner-take-all Conference ABCTeam dean Dante Lewis – alVII (14-0, 16-2 overall) to make ways an extra-base threat toward it to the Nassau Class A playoffs, the top of the order – will once ending a postseason drought that again showcase elite athleticism began in 1999. manning center field, Leger said, Bumping up this spring to with fellow senior Timothy MelenABC-VI, Elmont returns just four dez - a returning first baseman and of its conference championship righthanded pitcher – and junior starters – but it is a choice cadre. returner Camren Patterson – the Spartans’ No. 1 starting righty and Lady Spartans lynchpins Kimberly a middle infielder – also tapped to Rodriguez – a junior righthanded pitcher coming off a conferencebe Spartans difference-makers. leading 14, and career-best 16 “We have players who are wins – and Akemi Poyer (nee legitimately prospects to play in Shard) – a fifth year-starting senior college,” Leger said. “The coachshortstop, and Molloy College ing staff is supportive.” commit, who led the team in batThree Spartans juniors become third-year vets: Plus-fielding ting (.435) – are back, along with Andrew Peguero resumes starting senior captain Eloni Peralta who starts a third year at catcher. duties at the hot corner, while “The competition’s going to catching-combo mates Angel Varbe stiff, but we kept three very key gas and Antonio Marcello work as a revolving, two-position platoon, players,” said coach John Squillace, each player splitting time between whose club fell 13-2 last year to

By GARRETT D. URIBE

A

TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

Eloni Peralta

Lynbrook in a Class A outbracket game. “We’ve never had a pitcher like Kimberley. When she’s pitching, we’re never out of a game. Akemi’s not only a fantastic hitter, but she saves a ton of runs with her glove.

Eloni’s an incredible leader. She’s a great contact hitter and also great

play better than we did last year.

Mainly we have to play solid defense, play smart and not make errors. It’s exciting to play against new schools. The girls did great last year. We’re all looking forward to trying to continue that.”

Schedule BASEBALL April 1 West Hempstead 2 West Hempstead 4 Friends Academy Matt Guilfoyle 8 @ Friends Academy 15 Westbury 16 @ Westbury 17 @ Sewanhaka 22 Sewanhaka 25 @ G.N. North 26 G.N. North 29 @ Uniondale 30 Uniondale

Camren Patterson defensively.”

Senior outfielder Andrea Banks – projected to start a second year at one of the corners – is poised to take a step forward, Squillace said, while first-year third baseman Folake Samuyide (junior) has also generated some buzz. “Andrea’s got lots of power in her bat,” Squillace said. “She gets great breaks on the ball in the outfield. Folake can hit and she has a fantastic arm. We’re really looking for her to step up.”

Squillace added: “To win in this new conference, we’ll have to

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

May

2 6 7 9

@ Roosevelt Roosevelt Lawrence @ Lawrence

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SOFTBALL March 28 Floral Park 30 Jericho

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@ C.S. Harbor @ G.N. South West Hempstead @ Carle Place Lynbrook @ Floral Park @ Garden City C.S. Harbor Hewlett G.N. South

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Manhasset Carle Place @ North Shore @ Hewlett

April

May

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Photos by Sue Grieco

April 4, 2019 — 19

2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball preview

Freeport Red Devils’ playoff streak at four year before getting called up to the big club in late spring.

Freeport competes in Conference AA-I with Nassau resh off reaching the quarCounty powers Massapequa and terfinal round for the first time in nearly 40 years, Free- Oceanside along with Syosset, port baseball is looking to continue Farmingdale and Hempstead.

Delgado said facing several tough momentum with a fifth straight games a season against Class A’s playoff appearance. top league helps the continued Seventh-year coach Roberto progression of the program.

Delgado has spearheaded Free“It’s always fun to compete port’s momentum after taking against the best,” said Delgado, over a program that went winless from 2009 to 2011. The Red Devils whose team went 7-11 in conference play last year. “I like this achieved wins in a challenging Conference AA-1 before knocking conference.” off Herricks 10-0 in the first round Softball of the Class AA playoffs.

Freeport returns plenty of “We have a lot of committed kids who really want to play,” said experience looking to build on positive momentum established Delgado, a former professional baseball player in the San Francisco late last season.

The Lady Red Devils captured Giants minor league system. “I like six straight wins to end the 2018 the team we have.” campaign for a second place finSenior catcher Viandy Abreu has stepped up as a leader on the ish in Conference AA-III. Seconddiamond and also showed younger year coach Rich Genzone hopes players the importance of excelling the eight returning seniors will be fueled to improve upon last year’s in the classroom with a 4.0 grade point average. Abreu leads the Red 12-3 mark in order to earn the league’s lone postseason spot.

Devils with fellow seniors Nelson “Our goal is go undefeated Lozano, Elvin Fragoso and Roberto because that will assure we get Lizardo. into the playoffs,” Genzone said.

“They lead by example,” “The key will be cutting down on Delgado said of his senior class. mistakes.”

“They are really committed.”

Senior Naggalie Cruceta Junior Ronny Vicente is ready to step in as the ace of the pitching anchors the pitching circle after an All-Conference junior season staff and will also be an offensive in which she won nine games and force at designated hitter. Lefty hit seven home runs at the plate.

Justin Lorenzo is also slated to be in the starting rotation with Daniel Fellow senior Alyssa Fernandez Garcia an additional arm out of the leads the pitching staff once again as returning starting catcher after bullpen. They will throw to senior making strides in summer softball. catcher Viandy Abreu, who has “She has improved a lot from last started behind the plate the last year to this year,” said Genzone two years. of Fernandez. “The hard work is Junior first baseman Jorge Espinal provides some punch in the evident.”

Genzone is looking for a Red Devil lineup as a switch hitter.

Fellow junior Kyle Dorset shined as big offensive season from junior Yulianna Frometa, who was moved an outfielder on junior varsity last By andrew coen

F

to shortstop from center field.

Seniors Gianny Reynoso and Kisarie Cruceta also patrol the infield at second base and third base, respectively.

The Freeport lineup also features returning outfielders in senior Jennifer Ramos and junior Kayla Pimental. Yamilet Peralta and Gianna Baez are expected to split time at first base.

Beyond wins and losses, Genzone said he is proud of how his players shine in the classroom.

The softball program received a team award

Viandy Abreu

Schedule BASEBALL April

Yulianna Frometa from the school last year for having a high grade point average.

“We have a lot of scholar athletes,” Genzone said. “We definitely stress with the girls the importance of keeping up with their grades.”

The Lady Red Devils compete in a condensed Conference AA-III, which also features Uniondale, Hempstead and Westbury. As a result, teams will play each other three times as opposed to the traditional two.

8 9 11 15 16 17 22 23 25 29 30

Syosset @ Syosset Syosset Oceanside @ Oceanside Oceanside @ Farmingdale Farmingdale @ Farmingdale @ Hempstead Hempstead

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@ Hempstead @ Massapequa Massapequa @ Massapequa

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May

SOFTBALL March 27 @ Roslyn 29 @ Westbury

April

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Hempstead Roosevelt @ Uniondale Westbury Malverne @ Hempstead Uniondale @ Lawrence

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@ Westbury G.N. North Hempstead @ Uniondale

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Photos by Ron Manfredi

20 — April 4, 2019

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

April 4, 2019 — 21

2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

Hewlett Bulldogs rely on senior leadership everything out there,” DeBernardo said. “He’s got excellent baseball IQ and calls a great game.”

Big things are expected of espite losing its top two senior first baseman Antonio pitchers and the heart of the Egidio, who can find gaps. Senior batting order to graduation, Liam Stroh handles the hot corner.

Hewlett brings another senior-lad- The outfield spots on both sides en roster to the baseball diamond of Isayev are up for grabs, with and doesn’t want to settle for seniors Michael DeCicco and Harry anything less than a playoff berth, Blumenstein and juniors Will Kim coach Andy DeBernardo said. and Theo Franks all in the mix.

“We’ll be disappointed if we don’t make the playoffs with this Lady Bulldogs group,” DeBernardo said. “We’re swing for top spot in a tough conference again, but The Lady Bulldogs are coming I think we’ll find a way to win our off back-to-back conference titles share of games.” and took an extra step last spring, The Bulldogs, who won 12 defeating Valley Stream South in a games a year ago and went 1-2 well-played Class A playoff game in the Class A double-elimination for their 11th win of the campaign. playoffs, will tangle with Bethpage, A high-octane offense that Glen Cove, Plainedge, Roslyn and produced more runs than any South Side in a newly formed conference rival in each of the past Conference A3. two seasons lost two key pieces DeBernardo isn’t sure what of the puzzle. However, coach capacity he’ll utilize senior pitcher/ Vinnie Lospinuso is excited about shortstop Jason Barry when it a large group of returnees led comes to the mound, but the by fourth-year varsity performers All-Conference honoree will either Valarie Liao-Greene and Emma start or close games. Last year, he recorded three wins and two saves, Blumenstein.

“I think we’ll be right in the and hit .345 with 15 RBIs and 15 mix again to battle for a conferstolen bases. “We needed him more ence title,” Lospinuso said. “The on defense and to finish games girls put in a tremendous amount than we did as a starter last year,” of hitting work and we have DeBernardo said. “I’m not sure if proven hitters in the top half of our that’s going to change or not.” lineup.”

Senior Niko Tessitore ate up If last year and 2017 are any a bunch of innings in the second half last season and could pick up indication, run support shouldn’t be an issue for Liao-Greene, who’s where he left off, the coach said.

If he’s not on the mound he’ll play only a sophomore, and senior Dayne Beissel. Ideally, Lospinuso second base. Junior speedster said he would prefer to split the Anthony Isayev (27 steals) patrols center field and is another pitching pitching responsibilities down the middle. “Dayne has battled some candidate. He’ll hit leadoff or flip injury issues in the past, but evthe lineup over from the No. 9 eryone is hopeful that’s all behind spot. Lefty arm Sam Kelstein is up her,” he said. “She’s developed from JV. a bunch of pitches and can hit Senior Dillon Ristano, an spots. Val won every game for us All-Conference selection in 2017, last year and is always around the will catch twice each series and handle second base when Tessitore plate, so we’re excited about the combination.” throws. “Dillon takes control of

By TONy BELLISSIMO

D

22 — April 4, 2019

LiaoGreene, who earned All-County honors and batted .650 from the leadoff spot with 30 steals, plays shortstop when she’s not pitching.

Beissel and junior Emma Maroney will handle second base.

Blumenstein, a junior, is an outstanding center fielder, Lospinuso said, and ranked among Nassau’s leaders in home runs with seven. She batted .400 and had 23 RBIs. Senior Kate Geotina returns in left, while senior Arnelle Jean-Jacques and junior Katie Kersten vie for time in right.

Freshman Molly Williams (first base) and junior Izzy Mar-

Valarie Liao-Greene

Schedule BASEBALL April

Matt Guilfoyle 8 @ Roslyn 10 11 15 16 17 22 23 25 29 30

Roslyn @ Roslyn Glen Cove @ Glen Cove Glen Cove Plainedge @ Plainedge Plainedge South Side @ South Side

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May Jason Barry tino (catcher) are likely to bat third and cleanup, respectively. “Molly is tall with a good glove and bat,” Lospinuso said. Martino, who moves from third base, smacked five homers a year ago. “Izzy has good instincts behind the plate and good chemistry with Val,” the coach noted.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

2 6 7 9

South Side @ Bethpage Bethpage @ Bethpage

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SOFTBALL March 28 G.N. South 30 West Hempstead

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Carle Place C.S. Harbor @ Lynbrook @ Floral Park Garden City @ G.N. South @ Manhasset @ Carle Place @ Elmont @ C.S. Harbor

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North Shore Floral Park @ Jericho Elmont

April

May

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Photos by Donovan Berthoud

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April 4, 2019 — 23

2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

Kennedy Dedicated Cougars eye more success Jordan Kanner, outfielder Matthew Jones and Matt Nachamie, who can play first base, third base or ennedy made strides during catcher. Sophomore Justin Rosenfeld is also expected to contribute a seven-win improvement at shortstop after shining on JV as last year and with strong a freshman. senior leadership is eyeing a bigger Junior pitchers Ryan Schechleap this spring. ner, Anthony Comunale and Phil After a four-victory 2017 campaign, the Cougars went 11-9 LoGiudice are slated to start on the last season before losing to Clarke mound this spring after earning valuable varsity experience as in the first round of the Class A playoffs. New Kennedy coach Mike sophomores. Comunale led the Gattus sees potential for a deeper Cougars in innings pitched and LoGiudice recorded 46 strikeouts postseason run in May thanks a serious commitment the returning in eight appearances last year. players made during the offseason. Schechner also started in two key “Our goal is to work and get regular season games against better every day in practice,” said longtime county powers Wantagh and Plainedge.

Gattus, who was in the Kennedy dugout as an assistant coach Mix of talent for the past three years including a county finals run in 2016. “We’re Lady Cougars A combination of returning looking to compete in a very veterans and youngsters will look competitive conference.” to lift Kennedy softball to another Kennedy graduated key postseason run. pieces of last year’s playoff team, including the Cougars top pitcher Kennedy returns five starters off last year’s 11-7 team and hitter, Jason Coules, who is that dropped a heartbreaker to now competing on the collegiate level at Fordham. Returning seniors eventual county champion Carey in the Class A semifinals. The Zach Rosenfeld (third base), Ben experienced back in 2019 is Cohen (outfield), Kevin Ziminski coupled with several new faces and Terry Beeker have played an integral role in establishing a win- getting their first taste of varsity ning culture throughput the roster competition.

“It’s going to be a learning since last season ended. experience,” said third-year “It’s a great group of senior coach Krista Thorn, who has nine leaders,” Gattus said. “They set the tone in practice and push each underclassmen on her roster. “They are going to have to adjust to the other to get better.”

Cohen is back after an Allrewards and the failures.”

Conference season at designated Lauren Varela is Kennedy’s hitter in which he was second on lone senior on the roster and will team in hits Ziminski shined bebe an important presence in the hind the plate with an 82% caught outfield. Juniors Randi Finkelstein stealing percentage. Rosenfeld and Jenn Field will anchor the ranked in the top three for RBIS middle infield at second base and hits. and shortstop, respectively, with Other senior bats that Gatsophomore Morgan Tesser set for tus hopes can help provide run her second season starting at third support include second baseman base. Sophomore catcher Jessica By andrew coen

K

Nachamie will lead a young pitching staff from behind the plate after earning valuable experience as a freshman.

The pitchers circle will have a whole new feel this spring with eighth grader Sammi Levine slated to take on the number one starting role after shining on the Grand Avenue Middle School last year.

Versatile eighth grader Taylor Bodt adds a left option on the mound and will also contribute as a utility player who can be slotted all over the field.

Levine and Bodt are part of a four-player eighth grade class that Thorn believes can become

and South Side.

Thorn said there is potential a deep playoff push if the younger players show strides throughout the spring.

“We’re progressing at the right pace now,” Thorn said. “It’s coming together.”

Ben Cohen

Schedule BASEBALL April 8 Carey 9 Carey 11 @ Carey Matt Guilfoyle 15 @ New Hyde Park 1 6 New Hyde Park 17 @ New Hyde Park 22 @ Garden City 23 Garden City 25 @ Garden City 29 Manhasset 30 @ Manhasset

May

Lauren Varela the catalyst for a bright future.

Outfielder Paige Lipman and utility player Gianna Costaro are also expected to play major roles this season after making the jump from the middle school level.

“They may be young, but they are already a very special group,” said Thorn, who played Division I college softball at Hofstra. “”They have that bulldog mentality.”

Kennedy will compete in Conference AB-II with Plainedge, Clarke, Bethpage, East Rockaway

2 6 7 9

Manhasset @ Jericho Jericho @ Jericho

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SOFTBALL March

28 Bethpage 30 Seaford

April

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2 4 6 9 15 17 25 27 30

@ Plainedge 4:45 p.m. @ East Rockaway 4:30 p.m. @ MacArthur 10:00 a.m. @ Clarke 4:30 p.m.

South Side 4:30 p.m. @ Bethpage 4:30 p.m. @ Mepham 10:30 a.m.

Plainedge 10:00 a.m.

East Rockaway 4:30 p.m.

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Division Calhoun Clarke @ Carey @ South Side

May

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Photos by Jeff Wilson

24 — April 4, 2019

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

The Nassau County Police Activity League, Bellmore Unit, is an organization formed over 60 years ago to benefit children, not only from our community but all surrounding communities. We strive, with the help of the Police Department, to develop children’s character to become fine productive adults in future years.

The Bellmore PAL has many programs for all children from Pre School to Senior’s in High School. These programs help the children to learn sportsmanship, and develop athletic skills for future years. Many of our children have come back, as adults, to volunteer as coaches, commissioners or staff members.

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

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2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

Lawrence Golden Tornadoes reboot with optimism, new coach

By GARRETT D. URIBE

T

he clouds parted briefly over Lawrence last season, as the Golden Tornadoes snapped a skid that had stretched from their final game of 2016.

But the midseason win on Floral Park’s diamond still stands as the last Lawrence victory to date, as the club finished 1-17 in Nassau Conference A-3.

Brought on board for his aptitude in tidying up team performance, new Lawrence baseball coach Tommy Beirne – an accomplished former assistant head coach at Manhattan Community College – didn’t need his assignment spelled out for him.

“We needed to change direction,” said Beirne, whose Golden Tornadoes have moved into the Nassau Countywide Conference. “It’s an overhaul. We want to make this the turning point when baseball comes back to Lawrence.”

Beirne is founding Lawrence’s reboot on a pair of team cocaptains – a veteran and a varsity newcomer. First baseman Nick Pasquariello, a two-year starting senior, and Junior Salomon, a super-utility sophomore, bring complementary punch to Lawrence’s offense, said Beirne, and are team standouts in the field.

“Nick’s a big bat for us,” Beirne said. “And he’s a brick wall at first base. Junior can hit and play any position, and he’s a demon on the bases.”

Senior righthander James Kelly, Lawrence’s flame-throwing second-year ace, resumes his role as the team’s top pitcher, and will bat as an infielder between starts.

“James will be big for us this year,” Beirne said. “This kid has an arm and swings a good stick.”

Twin brothers Tyler and

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Harrison Kim, both senior righties, make up the heart of the Lawrence rotation, with sophomore Tommy Rincon – the staff’s only lefthander – at the back-end. Though the brothers’ pitching styles aren’t identical, Beirne said, each likes to use an off-speed ball and a knuckle-drop, while Rincon goes chiefly with gas. “Tyler’s a power guy; Harrison’s more finesse,” Beirne said. “The Kims will be key factors. Tommy will also help us on the mound.”

Added Beirne: “These boys are grinders. They’ve worked hard. I think people are in for a surprise. I’m excited to work with these kids.”

Lady Golden Tornadoes off 9-win season

The Lady Golden Tornadoes intend to hit the ground running (in both senses) this spring, after last year’s softball squad had the program’s first winning season this decade, going 9-6 in Conference ABC-VII. Long a proponent of pressuring pitchers by keeping up action on the basepaths, sixth-year coach Tom Frawley said foes this season should expect no let-up, with returning speedsters like Erica Pagano, a senior center fielder, and others given a standing green light to steal.

“Erica covers a lot of ground quickly,” said Frawley – whose team returns to ABC-VII. “We’ve got kids who can run. It’s worked for us. We’ll send Pagano and everyone else. The key, like last year, is to keep turning over the lineup.”

First baseman and captain Brooke Kirchner, a four-year starter, and fellow senior Tamia Vasser (right field) will apply their share of pressure from the plate, said Frawley, batting third and cleanup respectively, with eighth-grader

Cynthia Saravia (left field) and returning junior Brianna Ramirez (shortstop) setting the table at the top of a stacked order.

“Brooke makes great contact consistently,” Frawley said. “Tamia’s style is to hit the ball very hard and far. Cynthia hits and runs great.

Brianna’s probably our best hitter.”

Sophomore Madison Ramos joins returning senior – and fellow righty – Jardina Gomez in the circle for Lawrence. Gomez, now the team’s No. 1 hurler, recorded four wins as half of a pitching duo last season. “Jardina keeps us in games,” Frawley said. “We

in the field.

With all those assets, we’ll be tough. We’ve come a long way in six years.”

Brooke Kirchner

Schedule BASEBALL April Matt Guilfoyle 1 2 4 8 9 11 15 16 23 25 29 30

Nick Pasquariello wouldn’t have won nine games without her. Ramos has excellent control. Those two girls will get us through the season.”

Juniors Angie Calderon (third base) and Ashley Crespo (catcher), and eighth-grader Andie Adams (second base) – all first-year Lawrence starters up from JV – are tough outs at the bottom of the order, Frawley said.

The coach summarized: “We have kids who can put the ball in play and hit with power. We’re a fast team. We’re solid pitching and

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

Roosevelt @ Roosevelt Uniondale @ Uniondale West Hempstead West Hempstead Friends Academy @ Friends Academy Westbury @ Westbury @ Sewanhaka Sewanhaka

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

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May 2 6 7 9

G.N. North @ G.N. North @ Elmont Elmont

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

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4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 27 Hempstead 29 @ Roosevelt

April 1 5 8 10 16 24 26 29

@ Malverne @ Westbury G.N. North V.S. Central Roslyn Roosevelt Freeport Malverne

1 3 7 9

@ G.N. North @ Uniondale @ V.S. Central @ Roslyn

May

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Photos by Donovan Berthoud

April 4, 2019 — 27

2019 HERALD high School Baseball / Softball Preview

Long Beach Playoffs remains goal for Marines

By TONy BELLISSIMO

L

ong Beach is taking a pitching staff by committee approach this spring after losing its entire starting rotation to graduation following a second straight appearance in the Class AA playoffs.

Coach Jason Zizza is leaning on standout senior catcher Evan DeNardo to not only handle the revamped arms but also lead the offense from at or near the top of the lineup. Last year, DeNardo worked all 134-plus innings behind the plate and erased 38 percent of attempted base-stealers while being a finalist for the Ryan T. Caulfield award, given to the top backstop in Nassau County.

“Evan has the potential to be an All-County player,” Zizza said of DeNardo, who batted .333 and drove in 13 runs. “He’s a leader on the field and in the locker room. He plays as hard as anyone.”

Zizza expects defense and the heart of the lineup to be the strengths of the Marines, who compete in Conference AA-II along with Baldwin, East Meadow, Hicksville, Plainview and Port Washington. “We lost three onerun games last year and our goal is to compete hard again every day and make it into the playoffs for a third consecutive year,” he said.

Junior Matt Gernhardt returns at third base and could crack the pitching rotation. He plays aboveaverage defense, Zizza said, and will be counted on to produce runs with his bat in the middle of the order. Junior first baseman Aidan White (.296 avg.) is a three-sport athlete who can and will play anywhere in the infield, based on who’s pitching. Junior Jack Rand takes over at shortstop and will form a strong defensive corps up the middle with sophomore Robbie DeNardo at second base and ju28 — April 4, 2019

nior Cole Goldstein in center field.

Rand could hit leadoff. DeNardo is another in the mix to contribute on the mound along with juniors Thomas Corso and Jack Littman.

“We’re not going to have a conventional pitching rotation like most years,” Zizza said.

Senior Robbie Cody returns in left field and junior John Monaghan is a leading candidate in right.

Lady Marines are playoff fixtures: 25 straight The Lady Marines are coming off a 25th consecutive playoff appearance and reached the Class AA softball quarterfinals a year ago before falling to Oceanside.

A young group of pitchers didn’t get the best of defensive support while facing rugged Conference AA-I foes, but coach Carmine Verde is looking for the experience factor and a more manageable schedule to spur another postseason run.

Long Beach returns five starters, including three young award winners from 2018. Infielder Katie Frisch and pitcher Jillian Domingo were All-Conference selections as sophomores, while Elaina Kassap was Honorable Mention All-County as a freshman.

Frisch will play second or third base this spring and likely shift from the leadoff spot to the No. 3-hole after batting .333 with three homers. “She can really drive the ball,” Verde said.

Domingo, who blanked Herricks in the playoffs, and freshman Alex Hastings, who earned a win during the regular season, will handle the pitching workload. Domingo can also play almost anywhere in the infield. For both, Verde said, it’s a matter of consistency. “They both showed tremendous poise last season,” he noted. “They were never rattled

out of a game.

They’re developing pitches and just need to execute.”

Kassap is taking over the full-time role behind the plate after splitting time at catcher and third base a year ago. She raked at the dish, hitting .444 with 13 RBIs. “She’s great behind the plate with a strong arm,” Verde said of the team’s likely clean-up batter.

Senior Nicole Grandinetti is a solid defender with some ex-

Evan DeNardo

Caven and Julia DerGarabedian are among the possibilities in left.

Schedule BASEBALL April 8 9 11 15 16 17 22 23 25 29 30

East Meadow @ East Meadow East Meadow @ Port Washington Port Washington @ Port Washington @ Hicksville Hicksville @ Hicksville Baldwin @ Baldwin

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 6 7 9

Baldwin @ Plainview Plainview @ Plainview

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

May

Katie Frisch perience at first base who can provide an offensive spark as well, sophomore Kaitlin Erickson brings a reliable glove and arm to shortstop, and senior Samantha Kassap could work at third if Frisch sticks at second.

An all-senior outfield is more likely than not.

Megan Koretz (.288 avg.) is a ball-hawking center fielder as well as a key to the lineup in the 5-spot.

Fiona Erama returns in right and provides leadership, while Sydney

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

SOFTBALL March 29 @ Baldwin

April

4:45 p.m.

3 8 10 12 13 16 24 29

Farmingdale Hicksville @ Plainview @ Oceanside Port Washington Syosset Baldwin @ East Meadow

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:45 p.m.

1 7 9 11

@ Hicksville @ Massapequa Plainview @ Syosset

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

May

Photos by Sue Grieco

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

LynBrook Owls’ schedule as difficult as any

By TONy BELLISSIMO

A

fter missing the Nassau Class A baseball playoffs for the first time in nearly a decade, Lynbrook will need to navigate a challenging group of conference foes to return to postseason play.

“We’re going to be facing a stud pitcher every day,” coach Al Marrazzo said. “Last year was an education. This year we have more experience but we’re still in the toughest conference. As I’ve told the kids, all we can do is worry about us and work to get better every day.”

The Owls, 8-11 in 2018, will face three-time defending Long Island champion Wantagh, North Shore, Division, Valley Stream North and Floral Park three times apiece in Conference A-IV. A mix of juniors and seniors will lead Lynbrook’s playoff hopes, Marrazzo said. The top of the rotation features a couple of juniors, southpaw Phil Pino and right-hander Danny Dalrymple.

Pino, who also plays first base and outfield, was the team’s top reliever a year ago and has a strong command of the strike zone and a stellar curve. Dalrymple, who led the offense at the dish last spring, was a spot starter and reliever.

He throws in the low 80s and will handle shortstop or third base on non-pitching days.

The other spot in the starting rotation was up for grabs in camp, with seniors Jason Holquist and Andrew Abrams as well as junior Dylan Burfield all in the mix to get innings. Holquist is a solid shortstop, while Abrams, who missed last year due to injury, and Burfield, up from JV, can contribute at third.

Senior Colin Kelly tops the depth chart at second, while senior Kyle TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

Schneider returns at first.

Behind the plate, junior Anthony Ulrich has all the tools and a quality bat Marrazzo plans to utilize in the meat of the order.

“Anthony has the ability to be a big-time player,” he said.

Junior Nick Focarazzo returns as the leadoff hitter and center fielder. Junior Jordan Caceres raked in the batter’s box in March, and senior Max Hastings will also contribute.

Many new pieces for Lady Owls The Lady Owls enjoyed their share of success in 2018, winning 10 games including a playoff matchup against upstart Elmont before losing to eventual Nassau Class A champion Carey, 3-1.

A large part of last year’s team graduated, warranting a drop to Conference VI, although coach Peter Toscano expects the bats to produce enough offense to keep things interesting. “I think we’ll still be able to hit well,” he said. “We have to figure out where all the pieces are going to fit defensively.

The infield we had played together as a whole for four years. Now it’s brand new.”

Serving as Lynbrook’s catalyst both at the plate and with the glove is senior catcher Jessica Graepel, who’s caught every inning since her freshman campaign.

She’s been All-Conference or Honorable Mention All-County in each of her three varsity seasons.

“She has excellent reflexes and the greatest strength is her arm,” Toscano said of the lefty hitter, who’ll be in the leadoff spot or 2-hole.

After a mid-season call to play third base last spring, sophomore Lauren Siciliano brings her reliable glove and strong arm to shortstop and the pitching circle. She’ll also be a key to the offense as the

No. 3 or cleanup batter, Toscano said.

Line-drive hitting junior Nathalia Salazar is slated to get the nod at first base after converting from the outfield, while juniors Nicky Lopez and Lia Cohen and sophomore Grace Collins can all contribute at second or third base. All played well at the JV level. “It’s just a matter of communication for the new infield,” Toscano said. “I expect us to improve every day.”

Jessica Graepel

Schedule

Matt Guilfoyle BASEBALL

April 8 9 11 15 16 17 22 23 24 29 30

@ Floral Park Floral Park @ Floral Park @ V.S. North V.S. North @ V.S. North Wantagh @ Wantagh Wantagh North Shore @ North Shore

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

2 16 17 19

North Shore Division @ Division Division

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

May

Anthony Ulrich Junior Makayla O’Hagan has an opportunity to earn the large majority of innings in the pitching circle after enjoying some success at the JV level. The outfield has one spot up for grabs with senior Deirdre Murphy set to patrol center and junior Andie Glanzer operating in right.

The Lady Owls compete in Conference AB-V along with North Shore, Manhasset, Garden City, West Hempstead and Jericho.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

SOFTBALL March 27 West Hempstead 30 @ G.N. South

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

April 2 4 6 9 11 15 17 25 27 30

Garden City Jericho Hewlett @ North Shore @ Elmont @ Manhasset West Hempstead C.S. Harbor @ Garden City @ Jericho

2 6 8 10

@ Carle Place North Shore Floral Park Manhasset

May

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Sue Grieco

April 4, 2019 — 29

2019 HERALD high School Baseball / Softball Preview

MacArthur Generals stocked with new talent

By ANDREW COEN

A

largely new starting lineup will look to ignite enough offense to fuel MacArthur baseball toward another deep postseason run.

The Generals return just two starters off last year’s 19-5-1 team that fell just short of a county finals berth after falling to crosstown rival Division in the Class A semis.

Despite graduating 16 seniors, longtime coach team Steve Costello is excited though about the arrival of a strong group of players who shined on JV last year and are poised to help make MacArthur a contender again in Class A. “There is going to be some growing pains,” Costello said.

“We are going to have to nurse them through it so that at end of the year we are playing our best baseball.”

Senior center fielder Justin DeMaria anchors the MacArthur offense and outfield in addition to establishing himself as a veteran leader on a team lacking much varsity experience. The three-year starter led the Generals with a .560 on base percentage last year and earned All-League honors.

“He is a very good player and a very good athlete,” Costello said of DeMaria, who is slated to be the Generals’ leadoff hitter. “We will need a lot out of him at the top of the order.”

MacArthur’s other returning starter, Dom Notarstefano, leads a largely inexperienced pitching staff from behind the plate. The junior catcher is solid at blocking the plate and possesses a strong arm that should keep opponents in check on the base paths.

The pitching staff suffered major losses with the graduation of Diamond Award-winner Bran30 — April 4, 2019

don Buchan and Joe Keller. Looking to step up on the mound this spring are sophomore David Johnsen, who was the Generals number three pitcher last year, and junior Vinny Crapanzano, who shined on junior varsity. Chris Rauch, Kyle Gaertner and Jimmy Mahoney are also capable arms Costello can turn to.

Many of the starting positions were up for grabs during preseason practices. Costello said senior John Thatcher will likely be slotted in one of the infield spots.

Youth movement for Lady Generals

MacArthur fell shy of a third straight championship last year and now faces a massive roster turnover.

The Lady Generals lost nine seniors off a 20-3 season that ended with a sweep to Mepham in the best-of-three Nassau County Class A semifinals that denied them an opportunity for a three-peat Long Island title.

Among the graduation losses was the dominant battery-mate of ace pitcher Jessica Budrewicz and her twin sister Ashley at catcher, who not play on the collegiate level at NYIT. “We’re very, very young,” said 19th-year coach Bobby Fehrenbach. “We have a lot of new faces.”

Versatile senior Lisa Fabig, who played third base as a junior, may take on a starting pitching role this spring or play catcher. Fehrenbach is also looking at freshman Jess Mauro and eighth grader Taylor Brunn as possible arms in the circle.

“It’s a matter of finding that right mix,” Fehrenbach said.

Fabig, who earned All County honors last year in her third season as a starter, leads a three-member

senior class that includes center fielder Victoria Agnoli and shortstop Annie Zielinski. Junior second baseman Kayla Myles is also coming off an All County 2018 season.

The veteran players will lead a young roster where half of the 16 players are eighth, ninth and 10th graders. Sophomores Gabby Boccio and Jordyn Roth return after earning some varsity experience as freshmen in non-league games and the end of blowout wins.

MacArthur competes in the challenging Conference ABC-I with Division, Seaford, Carey, Mepham, Kennedy and Calhoun. All six

Justin DeMaria

Schedule April

BASEBALL

8 G.N. South

15 16 17 22 23 25 29 30

@ Calhoun Calhoun @ Calhoun @ Herricks Herricks @ Herricks V.S. Central @ V.S. Central

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 6 7 9

V.S. Central @ Mepham Mepham @ Mepham

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

9 @ G.N. South Matt 11 Guilfoyle G.N. South

May

Lisa Fabig teams automatically reach the playoffs and Fehrenbach hopes his largely young team will be positioned for another deep playoff run when May rolls around.

“It may take a while to come around,’ said Fehrenbach, who prior to this year only had three eighth graders on varsity and will have two up with big club this spring. “It’s just a matter of finding out when we are going to jell and who it is going to be.”

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

SOFTBALL March 28 Calhoun 30 @ South Side

4:30 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

2 4 6 9 11 15 17 25 27 30

Division Carey Kennedy @ Mepham @ Plainedge @ Seaford @ Calhoun Clarke @ Division @ Carey

4:45 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 6 8 10

@ Bethpage Mepham East Rockaway Seaford

April

May

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

Photos by Jeff Wilson

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

Malverne Mules hope experience pays off prevent runs.

“That’s why I was hesitant to put a fence up because those two guys can run for miles and they he Malverne baseball team can catch anything,” said Dunn showed plenty of spunk jokingly. during the 2018 season Another player to watch despite finishing with the same is sophomore corner infielder 6-13 record as the previous year’s Gerardo Delligatti, who can hit for squad. If the seven returning startpower with his 6-foot-3 frame. ers continue to flourish and the “He’s an absolute monster,” team can learn to finish games, the Dunn said. “[If] he gets a hold of a Mules could find themselves near ball, it doesn’t come back.” the top of the conference.

Malverne held the lead at one point in seven of its 13 losses last Lady Mules will year and another in an eventual rely on youth 8-8 tie at Carle Place on Apr. 16.

The softball team is in the The Mules also fought back from midst of a rebuild after a difficult seven runs down in the final inning showing in 2018 and will have of the Nassau B semifinal opener their third manager in as many before falling 7-5 to the Frogs. seasons this spring. But the latest That potential has coach Joe Dunn bench boss sees plenty of potential excited for the upcoming season. throughout the young roster and “Hopefully they can take the experience last year and come out is confident that more wins are on hot,” he said. “We could make the the horizon.

Former longtime middle playoffs again this year and even school softball manager and last make a run.” year’s JV coach Erin Schneck is Experience will be very now at the helm and is familiar evident on the mound as junior Tim Bosques, cousin Sam Bosques with many of the players after and sophomore Miles Tyson return managing them earlier in their careers. But her work will be cut to comprise this year’s staff. Tim out for her this year after Malverne Bosques had three wins in 2018, went 2-16 a year ago, with the last including a complete game fivehitter over East Rockaway on April victory coming against Hempstead 10 and Tyson fanned seven Oyster on Apr. 17.

The Lady Mules won the Bay batters during his only win of conference in 2015 and 2017. the campaign on April 21.

“We’re just trying to get the “Our starting rotation is basically back,” Dunn said. “Timmy program stronger,” Schneck said.

“We’re just looking forward to a looks great. We had to go to a positive season, working hard and freshman in Miles Tyson as our third pitcher and he did pretty well. working in the field.”

Schneck spent 10 years His experience and confidence is coaching at the middle school and up.”

Christian Morgan and top-of- already has a connection with the the-order hitter Josh Hillel return at juniors and seniors on the team catcher and shortstop, respectively, and used them to build a bond and Dunn is also ecstatic about with the newcomers. his outfield combination of seniors “They already know my style,” Khalil Smith in center and Brandon she said. “They already know that Saunders in left. Both have speed I expect them to work hard [and] and tremendous range to help show up to practice.”

By BRIAN KACHARABA

T

TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

Senior pitcher Subhadra Debnath, who produced both victories last year, is expected to get the bulk of the starts again this spring. Schneck described her as a “born leader” and praised her dedication and communication skills.

“All of the girls look up to her as a role model,” she said. “They

Alex Delligatti

last year and some of the future stars include sophomore first baseman-outfielder Gianne McKeever, sophomore third baseman Jhaylin Montas and freshman middle infielder Elizabeth Cardenas.

Schedule Matt Guilfoyle BASEBALL

April 8 9 11 15 16 17 22 23 25 29 30

C.S. Harbor @ C.S. Harbor C.S. Harbor Carle Place @ Carle Place Carle Place @ Oyster Bay Oyster Bay @ Oyster Bay @ East Rockaway East Rockaway

4:15 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 6 7 9

@ East Rockaway Wheatley @ Wheatley Wheatley

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May

Tim Bosques want to be like her, the underclassmen want to pitch like her. She’s done a lot for the future of this program.”

Debnath’s battery mate and co-captain, senior catcher Alex Delligatti, is coming off consecutive six home run seasons, including a grand slam against Hempstead last year, and will again be looked upon to carry the offense after batting .685.

Six players on this year’s roster were on Schneck’s JV team

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

SOFTBALL March 26 Westbury 29 @ V.S. Central

April 1 3 8 10 12 16 24 26 29

Lawrence Roosevelt @ Roosevelt @ Roslyn @ Freeport @ G.N. North V.S. Central Uniondale @ Lawrence

May

3 @ Hempstead 7 Roslyn 9 G.N. North

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Sue Grieco

April 4, 2019 — 31

2019 HERALD high School Baseball / Softball preview

MephaM Pirates eye deep playoff voyage

By DAVID WEINGRAD

D

espite a significant roster turnover, the Pirates have their sights set on a return to the postseason, aided by an abundance of talented underclassmen ready to step up. “It’s going to be a different Mepham team,” coach Eric Passman said. “But we expect to compete. Our expectation is to go deep into the playoffs.”

His confidence is bolstered in large part by the return of senior All-County right-fielder Gianni Macchio. The Diamond Award finalist and five-tool player, who last year finished with a cool .508 batting average, will be the centerpiece of an offense built primarily on speed.

Several other positions will be decided this spring. While junior Matt Hegi will be a prominent bat in the middle of the order, he’ll compete for an outfield spot along with senior center fielder Nick Cuccinella, juniors Brandon Keane and Rocco Law and sophomore Brandon Hislop.

In the infield, “defensive wizard” Kenny Franquiz will shift from second base to shortstop. Sophomore Billy Kender, junior Griffin Karp and senior Anthony Paolillo will share time at second and third, and first base is an open competition between senior Marco Baez and junior Joe Rosser.

Baez is also among the team’s top pitchers, a reliable strike thrower for the Pirates a season ago. Other solid arms include juniors Sean White, Christian Roes and Chris Brocks, and sophomores Tyler O’Neil and Jack Davila.

Roes, a transfer from St. Anthony’s, has “incredible stuff,” Passman said, and will make an 32 — April 4, 2019

impact as a starter or reliever.

Davila, the coach added, is a game-changer when he’s able to locate his breaking ball.

Guiding those pitchers behind the plate will be returning junior Adelson Molina, who Passman referred to as the top backstop in Nassau County. “He’s everything you want in a catcher,” said the coach. “He picks off runners at every base. His arm is like a cannon. He’s a blocking machine and he controls the running game.”

On April 12, Mepham will play its annual charitable game at Farmingdale State against Bellmore JFK. All funds raised will be donated to the veterans’ organization Hope for the Warriors.

Lady Pirates off trip to finals

Arguably no team defied expectations more than the Lady Pirates last season, who stunned the two-time reigning Long Island champion MacArthur in the Class A semifinals before falling a short in a hard-fought championship series against Carey.

But if you ask coach Brenda Dolan, it was a feat that her team always knew they were capable of.

“The girls and I talked about the fact that no one is invincible,” she said. “If you work hard and outwork the other team, the chances are in your favor.”

The secret is out on the Lady Pirates, however, and Dolan said her team is craving a county title that barely eluded them a season ago – plus more. “The girls want to go to states,” she said. “I said let’s take it one game at a time.”

Dolan was coy when discussing her team’s strategy, stressing only that it will be shuffling the roster and mixing things up based on their opposition each game.

“We’ll have a different look than what teams are expecting,” she

hinted.

The Lady Pirates return their entire pitching staff, and what they lost in other positions to graduation will be reinforced by youth.

Junior Brianna Morse, All-County and second-team All-Long Island, will be a

big part of the team’s game plan, as will her sister, freshman Alanna Morse, who will stick at third base.

Junior Stephanie Simone will see a bulk of the time at shortstop.

Nick Cuccinella

said Dolan.

On this year’s expectations, the coach added, “We don’t take for granted what we accomplished. We now have to build on it and prove it was the real thing.”

Schedule April

BASEBALL

8 9 11 15 16 17 Matt 22 23 25 29 30

@ Calhoun Calhoun @ Calhoun @ Herricks Herricks @ Herricks Guilfoyle V.S. Central @ V.S. Central V.S. Central @ G.N. South G.N. South

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 6 7 9

@ G.N. South MacArthur @ MacArthur MacArthur

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May

Kayla Bourquin “She’s got tremendous range,” Dolan said.

Senior Kayla Bourquin, who closed out their semifinal win last season, is expected to be a force on the mound once again, reconnecting with her battery-mate, senior Jessie Lanzisera. Junior Jenna Giliberti, who will see much time in the outfield, is a key bat that can wreak havoc on the basepaths.

“We have speed, we have lots of power front to back,”

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

SOFTBALL March 28 @ Seaford 29 @ Bethpage

April

2 4 9 11 15 17 25 27 30

@ Calhoun Division MacArthur @ South Side Carey Seaford Kennedy Calhoun @ Division

2 3 6 8 10

@ Plainedge East Rockaway @ MacArthur Clarke @ Carey

May

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

Nassau County Police Activity League

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

April 4, 2019 — 33

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HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

OceanSide Sailors in title conversation again in center. Alvarez is also being counted on as a starting pitcher and has experience on the mound, just not at the high school level. ew baseball programs in Vlahakis batted .362 but Nassau can top the success was limited to 62 achieved by Oceanside plate appearances due in recent years. In 2018, the to injury. Junior Kevin Sailors captured a third straight Murphy is likely to take conference title while posting 21 over right field. victories. Still, they fell short of their Senior Jake Reyer heads ultimate goal of a county champi- the pitching rotation and brings onship, falling to Massapequa in sound mechanics, while senior Rob the Class AA finals.

Mezack and junior Tyler Zangi vie “We’ve done everything we for the job behind the plate. can do in my first seven years except win the last series we play,” Lady Sailors can coach Mike Postilio said. “We lost rake at plate a great pitching staff, but I don’t Reaching the Nassau Class think we’re rebuilding. Offensively and defensively, we should be just AA semifinals with a squad consisting of just one senior starter as strong.” and a boatload of sophomores in Oceanside, 103-41 under 2018 was satisfying for the Lady Postilio and with seven position Sailors, who are looking for bigger players returning as starters, will things this spring. battle Massapequa, Farmingdale, “It was a stepping stone,” Freeport, Syosset and Hempstead coach Carlo Quagliata said. “Our in Conference AA-1 action. expectations are higher this year.

Opponents could have We believe we can take the next headaches trying to get through the Sailors’ lineup featuring a slew step and get to the county championship series and see what we can of award-winners, led by reigning Conference Player of the Year Jake do from there.”

Quagliata expects the offense Lazzaro, who earned All-County to be at the forefront of any suchonors after hitting .412 with a cess. “We should be able to score team-leading 34 runs scored and with anybody,” he said.

22 steals. “He’s an outstanding The team’s top offensive athlete with all the tools,” Postilio weapons also comprise its defense said of the St. John’s University up the middle. Junior shortstop bound shortstop.

Emily Seaver was fifth-team Senior Noah Eisel returns All-State and picked up a second at second base and as the No. 2 hitter (.369 avg., 32 runs, 23 RBIs) straight All-County award after hitting .460 with a county leading and is also joining the pitching rotation. Senior Chris Siklas comes 12 homers (including playoffs) to go with 32 RBIs. She’ll anchor the off a monster season at first lineup from the No. 3 spot. “She’s base — he batted .453 with 23 a five-tool player,” Quagliata said.

RBIs and struck out only six times At second base, lefty slap-hitter — and senior Frank Trotta (.275 avg.) handles the hot corner with a and speedster Courtney Murphy hit .487 from the leadoff spot and steady glove and arm. was Honorable Mention All-County The outfield features senior as a freshman. “Nobody has speed Leo Alvarez (team-best .461 avg., like Courtney,” he noted. And in team-best 27 RBIs, 29 runs) in center field, junior Catherine Stan left and senior Austin Vlahakis

By TONy BELLISSIMO

F

TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

ford (.567 avg., 48 hits, 26 RBIs) has three All-County campaigns under her belt and will hit between the aforementioned pair. “Catherine is our field general,” the coach said.

At the corners, junior Rebecca Bauman (first base) will hit in a run-producing spot and junior Catie Henn is a reliable contact hitter with the ability to scoop everything that comes her way at third base. Sophomore Ashley Corr returns in left field after swatting three homers a year ago, while juniors Arianna Elbaz and Jessica

Emily Seaver

Schedule BASEBALL April 8 9 11 15 16 17 22 23 25 29 30

Farmingdale @ Farmingdale Farmingdale @ Freeport Freeport @ Freeport @ Hempstead Hempstead @ Hempstead Massapequa @ Massapequa

4:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 6 7 9

Massapequa @ Syosset Syosset @ Syosset

7:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May

Jake Lazzaro Panin top the depth chart in right.

Behind the plate, All-Conference junior Elena Rubino returns after hitting .421 with 18 RBIs. “She’s vocal and experienced,” Quagliata said.

In the pitching circle, junior Hallie Neufeld earned all 9 of Oceanside’s victories and is a twotime All-Conference selection. Also returning is junior Emma Cohen, who projects to get an increased workload.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

SOFTBALL March

29 East Meadow

April 1 3 8 10 12 13 17 24 29

@ Massapequa @ Baldwin Port Washington @ Farmingdale Long Beach @ Syosset Massapequa @ East Meadow Hicksville

May

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

3:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

1 @ Port Washington 4:45 p.m.

7 Plainview 4:30 p.m.

9 Farmingdale 4:30 p.m.

Photos by Jeff Wilson

April 4, 2019 — 35

2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

SeaforD Youthful Vikings aim for playoffs eighth grader.

Butler enters anchors the pitching circle after an All County season in which she was espite graduating a large also a leading hitter in her secsenior class, Seaford baseond season on varsity. Freshman ball is poised to extend its Jamie Horodecki will also take the playoff streak. mound this spring after getting The Vikings lost 12 seniors called up to varsity late last year as off last year’s team that captured an eighth grader. its second conference title in a Junior Jordan Ragona row and earned the program’s is slated to lead the pitching 15th straight postseason appearstaff at catcher following an ance. Seaford returns a slew of All-Conference sophomore sophomores and juniors motivated campaign. Freshman Meghan for a chance to shine after the ViLady Vikings sailing Haugh also could see time kings were bounced in two games behind the plate after impressing with top dogs in last year’s Class A playoffs. in preseason practices.

Seaford is armed with plenty “It’s an inexperienced deep Junior center fielder Victoria of experience as it gears up for stiff team in a lot of ways, but in a DelPrete brings experience to the competition in Class A’s top league. sneaky way we have a lot of outfield as a third year starter. The The Lady Vikings return most of experience because of a lot of rest of the outfield spots were still their 2018 team that reached the sophomores and juniors who up for grabs after the first couple second round of the playoffs. With played last year,” coach Mike a veteran group back, Seaford will Milano said. “They want to prove return to Conference AB-1 after a they can win games at this level one-year absence and be assured against very tough competition.” of achieving a 17th straight playoff Milano is looking for senior shortstop Tim Saulpaugh to pick up appearance with eyes on a deeper for much of the offensive firepower postseason run.

“Our goal is to go further,” not returning this spring. Saulsaid third-year coach Thomas paugh earned All-County honors last year after hitting .415 with 18 Fioriglio. “We’re competing in the top league in Nassau County, but stolen bases.

I think we are ready for the chal“He is a big presence at the lenge.” plate,” Milano said of Saulpaugh.

Two-time All County shortstop “He is a big strong kid.”

Julie Hilcken returns as Seaford’s Julie Hilcken Junior catcher Nick Barreiros lone senior and one of the team’s also returns after splitting time offensive leaders. The Cornellbehind the plate and center field weeks of practices. bound Hilcken is also a leader as a sophomore. Milano expects Seaford’s competition in off the field as a co-captain with Barreiros to be one of Seaford’s Conference play includes Mepham, leading hitters while also leading a sophomore pitcher Anna Butler.

MacArthur, Division, Carey, “She’s been like my assistant young pitching staff.

Bellmore-Kennedy and Calhoun. coach the last two years,” Fioriglio “We expect him to have a All teams in the league are assured said of Hilcken. “Her leadership is very big offensive year,” Milano of a postseason spot. unparalleled.” said of his starting catcher.

Hilcken patrols the middle Seaford gets a boost on the infield with junior second baseman mound with the return of senior Karyn Schaller, who will look the pitcher/infielder Logan Masters, jumpstart the Viking bats as a who missed most of 2018 with a hip fracture. Juniors Chris Pupa and speedy leadoff hitter. Freshman Anita Farkash mans the hot corner Frank Cazzolino will also add to a at third base on heels of earning deep rotation that features eight All Conference accolades as an potential arms.

By ANDREW COEN

D

36 — April 4, 2019

The Vikings will have a number of newcomers this year looking to step up on the big stage after earning valuable experience on junior varsity. Junior first baseman Joe Cain is among the varsity newcomers Milano sees big potential in for the next two years along with Rich Apollo, who got called up from JV late last year.

Seaford will compete in Conference A5 with Valley Stream South, Mineola, Clarke, Island Trees and Locust Valley.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

Tim Saulpaugh

Schedule BASEBALL April 8 @ Locust Valley 9 Locust Valley 11 @ Locust Valley Matt Guilfoyle 15 @ Clarke 16 Clarke 17 @ Clarke 22 Mineola 23 @ Mineola 25 Mineola 29 Island Trees 30 @ Island Trees

May

2 6 7 9

Island Trees V.S. South @ V.S. South V.S. South

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 27 Mepham 30 @ Kennedy

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

2 4 5 9 11 15 17 25 27 29 30

@ Carey @ Calhoun @ Plainedge @ Division @ Clarke MacArthur @ Mepham Bethpage Carey South Side Calhoun

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 @ East Rockaway 6 Division 10 @ MacArthur

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

April

May

Photos by John Heckman

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

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April 4, 2019 — 37

2019 HERALD high School Baseball / Softball Preview

Sewanhaka Indians can challenge for top spot bat leadoff. Junior center fielder Michael Guglielmo is another hitter who could occupy one of the top spots in the order. He’s a strong ewanhaka baseball’s move defensive outfielder who covers a to the Countywide Conference in 2018 proved to be a lot of ground.

Kassoff is looking for big successful one. A year after picking things from senior outfielder Liam up just two victories, the Indians finished with an overall record Farrell. Sophomore Connor Albrektof 13-5 and were competitive in sen won two games on the mound every game in Chris Kassoff’s first as a freshman. When Albrektsen season as coach. isn’t pitching, he will see time at Despite losing a dozen players third and in the outfield. to graduation, the Indians have some key returnees, and should be Pitching holds key in the mix for league supremacy. for Lady Indians Kassoff likes the group’s After some difficult seasons, makeup, but knows it will take the Lady Indians turned things some time for his team to jell. “We around in 2018. The team finished should be better than we were with an 8-6 record with four of last year,” Kassoff said. “We have the losses coming by a single run. some core players back. One of Despite a heartbreaking 3-2 loss the things you lose when so many to Valley Stream South in the players graduate is communication season’s final game, Sewanhaka showed its mettle by taking the on the field. It’s an area where conference champions 12 innings. we need to get better. I’m excited The Lady Indians lost a ton about the season.”

Timothy Brendel led the team to graduation, so the team will in batting average and RBI as a ju- be young and inexperienced.

However, Sewanhaka is strong nior. The team’s starting shortstop where it matters most. The Lady will likely take the mound each Indians will move up a league and Monday. Brendel features a curve, compete in Nassau Conference change, and two- and four-seam AB-IV, a league comprising Valley fastballs.

Stream South, Wheatley, Mineola, Senior Nicholas Balletta was Glen Cove, and Oyster Bay. the team’s catcher, but he may be Coach Deidre Kelly, who moved to third base. Balletta, who is assisted by Mike Ryan, is hit a pair of homers as a junior, optimistic. “We’re very young and will also pitch. Sophomore Joshua have just a couple of seniors, so Estevez and freshman Devin Grant we’re relying on our experienced of vying for time behind the plate. players to lead the way,” Kelly said. “Anytime you have strong Junior southpaw Steven pitching, you’re always going to be Brendel led the team in wins as a in games. We’re hoping the offense sophomore. He could emerge as will be able to scratch out runs. It’s the ace of the pitching staff. The the start of something new.” younger Brendel, who will serve Junior pitcher Marisa Ogden as the team’s first baseman, has a returns in the circle, where she good stick and will likely hit fourth. won six games. In addition to a Freshman Alec Guglielmo is a fastball, Ogden has a screwball, big part of the present and future a drop, and is working on other at Sewanhaka. Guglielmo can play pitches. She’s also swings a big second, third, and shortstop, and bat, connecting for a pair of homwill also pitch. Chances are he will

By ANDREW MCCLURE

S

38 — April 4, 2019

ers as a sophomore.

Junior Megan Bleeker doesn’t throw with the same velocity, but she moves the ball around and gets people out. Bleeker, who missed much of last season with an injury, is a solid hitter who can play anywhere on the field.

Eighth-grader Gianna Giovanaddo will handle the catching duties. Giovanaddo is hard-working player who is getting better every day. Youth will also be served in the middle infield as freshman Kaitlyn Albrektsen takes over at shortstop. Sophomore Blanca Castillo and junior Adalis Ayala will both see time at second base.

Marisa Ogden

Schedule BASEBALL April Matt Guilfoyle 4 8 9 11 15 16 17 22 23 25 29 30

Westbury @ Westbury @ Uniondale Uniondale @ G.N. North G.N. North Elmont @ Elmont @ Roosevelt Roosevelt Lawrence @ Lawrence

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

2 6 7 9

@ West Hempstead West Hempstead Friends Academy @ Friends Academy

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

May

Timothy Brendel A pair of sophomores, Vanessa Cruz and Jessica Diaz, are battling it out at third base, with senior Gabriella Genneralli expected to be across the diamond at first. Kelly will need to find a spot on the field for hard-hitting junior Samantha Hrbek.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

SOFTBALL March 28 Wheatley 30 Locust Valley

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

2 4 6 9 11 15 17 25 27 30

V.S. South Oyster Bay @ V.S. North @ Glen Cove Island Trees @ Mineola @ Wheatley @ Wantagh @ V.S. South @ Oyster Bay

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

5:00 p.m.

2 6 8 10

New Hyde Park Glen Cove @ Herricks Mineola

April

May

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2019 HERALD high School Baseball / Softball Preview

South Side Pitching biggest key for Cyclones

By BRIAN KACHARABA

t

he South Side baseball team will go as far as the pitching will take it.

Despite losing ace Bobby Frankini to graduation, the Cyclones will still boast a stacked staff with three promising starters and two dependable back end hurlers this year that could cause fits for opposing offenses. But consistency and avoiding another slow start will go a long way to determining the team’s success as well.

Bad weather and an unplayable home field resulted in South Side averaging over 10 runs allowed during a season-opening five-game losing streak in 2018.

The Cyclones eventually found their rhythm and went 8-7 the rest of the way to earn an outbracket playoff berth.

“It was a big learning curve for the pitching staff,” coach Tom Smith said. “Pitching-wise, we’ve got a ton of depth and a ton of experience now because they were so young on the mound last year.”

Juniors Danny Kelleher and lefty Sean Kelly both enjoyed success early in their varsity careers and are slated to start the first two games of the season. Senior Tyler Costaro, the third starter, struck out 31 batters in 26 innings last year, including eight in a 6-1 win at New Hyde Park on May 1.

“We’re relying on these three to be a heavy 1-2-3 punch,” Smith said.

Teams won’t find it any easier if they do reach the bullpen. Senior Grant Goodlad possesses a mid80s fastball and submarine closer Tim O’Brien (2 wins, 3 saves, 1.20 ERA) was lights out any time he came into the game with a lead.

Junior Anthony Pericolosi hit over .300 last season and will anchor the outfield that will also TO ADVERTISE CALL 516-569-4000

include a mix of Ryan Riccio, Paul Mata and T.J. Maher. Senior John LaCava and sophomore Jack Temple will split the catching duties and “smart hitter” Jason Schwartz is expected to join Kelly, Kelleher and Costaro on the infield when the latter three aren’t pitching.

South Side will be in Conference A-3 with Bethpage, the team that defeated it in last year’s playoff game, Plainedge, Glen Cove, Hewlett and Roslyn.

Lady Cyclones ahead of schedule What a difference a year makes.

One year removed from a dismal four-win 2017, the South Side softball team rebounded with a 14-4 regular-season record and a share of the Conference ABC-3 title, the program’s first championship since 1999. With one of their top pitchers returning and balanced hitters throughout the lineup, the Lady Cyclones could be poised for a deep playoff run this spring.

The turning point last season came on April 9, when South Side rallied from four runs down to post a 6-5 victory on Katie Mazzanobile’s walkoff two-run single. Instead of falling back to .500, the Lady Cyclones went on an eight-game winning streak to separate themselves from the rest of the pack.

“It was really the girls,” second-year coach Nicole Tufano said. “They put in all of the hard work and dedication. It was their season.”

Morgan Gilligan is coming off a solid junior season, when she went 8-1 in the circle while batting .583 with four home runs and 39 RBIs. She will get even more pitching assignments this season after the team lost six-game winner Emma Wagner to graduation.

“Not only is she a great player, but she’s our leader [and] our team captain,” assistant coach Mike

Digiaimo said of Gilligan.

“We love what she gave us last year and we expect her to do more of the same this year.”

Gilligan will have a new batterymate in sophomore Elinor Quigley, a strong contact hitter who replaced the graduated Mary Macre. The pair has impressed with their chemistry thus far.

Gilligan shared All-County honors last season with returning second baseman Alexa Fingleton, who drilled three home runs in 2018 while posting an .567 on-base percentage. South Side will again be hoping for solid production from several other seniors, including center fielder Kelli Maher (.458 batting

Tyler Costaro

Schedule BASEBALL April 8 Glen Cove Matt Guilfoyle 9 @ Glen Cove 11 15 16 17 22 23 25 29 30

Glen Cove Plainedge @ Plainedge Plainedge @ Bethpage Bethpage @ Bethpage @ Hewlett Hewlett

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 6 7 9

@ Hewlett @ Roslyn Roslyn @ Roslyn

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May

Morgan Gilligan average, 10 RBIs), first baseman Katie Mazzinobile (.554, 19), surehanded shortstop Maddie Nellis (.368 on-base percentage) and right fielder Shannon Bender (.393 OBP).

South Side moved up to Conference 2 this season along with East Rockaway, the other cochampion.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

SOFTBALL March 28 East Rockaway 30 MacArthur

April

2 4 6 9 11 15 16 25 27 29 30

5:00 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

Clarke 5:00 p.m.

Plainedge 5:00 p.m. @ Calhoun 1:30 p.m. @ Bethpage 4:30 p.m.

Mepham 5:00 p.m. @ Kennedy 4:30 p.m. @ East Rockaway 4:30 p.m. @ Division 10:30 a.m. @ Clarke 1:30 p.m. @ Seaford 4:30 p.m. @ Plainedge 4:45 p.m.

May

2 Carey 6 Bethpage 10 Kennedy

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

April 4, 2019 — 39

2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

V.S. CentrAl Leadership, pitching keys for Eagles

By DAVID WEINGRAD

A

deep roster highlighted by a crop of returning seniors and an abundance of quality pitching will guide the Valley Stream Central Eagles in what they expect to be a strong comeback season from a year ago.

As the preseason neared its end, new coach Paul Klimuszko said a handful of positions were still in open competition – a good problem to have, he added cheerfully. “There’s positions where I really feel comfortable that I can use any of these 16 kids,” he said.

“These kids come to practice every day and they work hard. They’re making it difficult for me.”

The coach praised the leadership skills shown by his senior class, which he said has eased his transition as he enters his first year coaching the team. Offensively, Klimuzsko said his players have made major strides after putting in heavy offseason work.

But it’s their depth at pitcher that has him most excited. The coach highlighted senior lefthander Jamal Ritter, who will shift time between first base and center field when he’s not on the mound.

Returning senior Shane Benvin, who also pitches, will spend most of the time anchoring the staff on the other side of home plate. “He has great footwork behind the plate,” Klimuszko said.

“He works well with the pitchers.”

Stephen Marinez, another pitcher newly promoted from JV, is capable of playing any position.

The junior has already impressed the coaching staff with his leadership abilities. “He’s like a second coach out there on the field,” said Klimuszko.

The coach also praised senior Eric Chacon, a “quiet leader” at second base who can also pitch.

Sitting in Conference A-1 40 — April 4, 2019

with Calhoun, Great Neck South, Herricks, MacArthur and Mepham, the Eagles will be stacked against tough competition all year. But it’s a challenge they are ready for.

“We’re going to have a quality opponent every time we step on the field,” Klimuszko said. “I think we can compete with everyone.

If we keep working hard on the fundamentals in practice, I think we’re going to be successful.”

Lady Eagles possess important pieces

With a formidable lineup and a potential ace pitching most games, first-year coach Michael Kilgannon says he likes the odds for the Lady Eagles this spring.

“If we play up to our potential,” the coach said, “I think we are one of the best teams in the league.”

Though it would take a near-perfect record to land a playoff berth out of Conference AB-VII, Kilgannon said his team is more concerned with playing an aggressive and mistake-free brand of softball, and not worry about things beyond their control.

A major source of his confidence stems from Casey Woluewich, who will be a mainstay in the circle. Watching her pitch before the season even began, the freshman already left an indelible impression on Kilgannon, who previously served as the school’s JV softball coach. “She throws hard,” he said. “When I first saw her, I was like ‘Wow.” Casey’s older sister, sophomore Alexis Woluewich, pitched frequently last season but will take time off from throwing this year as she recovers from a shoulder injury.

She’ll still be in the lineup every day, playing first base and batting third.

Kilgannon lauded his infield defense, particularly senior Kaitlin Gabiddon, a sure-handed short-

stop and speedster who will bat leadoff. Manning third base and hitting cleanup will be senior Danielle Myers, who Kilgannon said can also pick it. “The middle of the order is solid,” said Kilgannon. “I think we’re going to have some power.”

Also in the mix will be freshman Tylyn Lesane, a solid hitting, super-utility player who will likely open in the outfield. “She’s too good not to play,” her coach said.

The coach said it will be an acclimation process early on as he gets to know his team and figures out who best fits where. But so far, he likes what he is seeing. And while a postseason berth may be

Danielle Myers

Schedule

BASEBALL March 26 @ Calhoun 27 Calhoun 29 @ Calhoun

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

8 Herricks 9 @ Herricks 11 Herricks 15 G.N. South 16 @ G.N. South Matt Guilfoyle 17 G.N. South 22 @ Mepham 23 Mepham 25 @ Mepham 29 @ MacArthur 30 MacArthur

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

April

Jamal Ritter a challenging task, that hasn’t stopped them from aiming high.

“I want to win the division and go undefeated,” Kilgannon said. “If we play the way we can, it’s a possibility.”

The Lady Eagles will face Lawrence, Roosevelt, Malverne, Roslyn and Great Neck North twice apiece, and Freeport, Uniondale, Hempstead and Westbury once.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

May

2 6 7 9

@ MacArthur Calhoun @ Calhoun Calhoun

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March 29 Malverne

April

5:00 p.m.

1 6 8 10 12 16 24 26 29

G.N. North Freeport Roslyn @ Lawrence @ Uniondale @ Roosevelt @ Malverne Hempstead @ G.N. North

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

1 3 7 9

@ Roslyn @ Westbury Lawrence Roosevelt

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May

Photos by Ron Manfredi

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

V.S. NortH Spartans aim for deep playoff run for outfield time, as will junior Tim McGrath.

Tristan Ferreira will slide over from third base to first and Kiernan ith a strong pitching rota- Morgan is another strong offensive tion and balanced lineup, player who could produce in the the Valley Stream North lineup. baseball team could again find A return to the playoffs will itself among the elite eight in the be even more challenging with Nassau County Class A. Now all it powerhouse Wantagh joining needs is better luck.

Conference 4A to go with Division, The Spartans qualified for the North Shore, Lynbrook and Floral postseason for the 18th time in the Park. “There’s not one week that last 20 years in 2018 and won two going to be a laugher in this playoff games before controversy league,” Sanfilippo said. struck. After an epic 13-inning win over Plainedge on May 21, league Lady Spartans gain officials forced the team to travel needed experience to MacArthur later in that day to Despite an inexperienced play in the quarterfinals. North requested the game be postponed to roster, the Lady Spartans posted the following day but the proposal a second straight 6-11 season was denied, and the Spartans lost under new coach Dan Tronolone last spring. But if the youngsters 6-2 to finish 15-8. continue to grow and be more Coach Phil Sanfilippo said consistent on the mound and at that his senior-laden team will be even stronger after that experience. the plate, the team could find “Obviously, we weren’t happy themselves in contention for a playoff spot. with how it ended, but I would North had a decent start to say we’ve been really positive,” he 2018 by winning five of its first said. “They definitely have a lot eight games before the offense more confidence this year.”

The Spartans boast two of the began to sputter during an eightgame losing streak that dropped top starting pitchers in the county the team in the conference Chris Manzi (4-1, 1.90 ERA) and standings. A 13-12 win over Locust Colin McGreevy (1.52 ERA, 2 saves). Fellow senior Eddie Ye won Valley in the season finale put the girls on the right track entering this three games last season. season.

Infielder Joe Gisonda led the “Last year, I started five team in most offensive categories freshman and a seventh grader at last season, including a .457 average, seven home runs, 35 runs one time or another, so we tried scored and 14 stolen bases. Fellow to overcome things, just weren’t sophomore James Saracino turned able to,” Tronolone said. “It was definitely a big learning experience heads in 2018 by batting .451 while playing solid defense behind and hopefully those six girls have a foundation this year that we can the plate. build upon.”

Senior Joe Estela could take Senior Victoria Rosetti was the over at centerfield and Chris main starting pitcher last season Lynch, who scored the winning and won five games, but Tronolone run against Plainedge, will see action in one of the corner outfield is hoping to ease her workload with eighth-grade hurler Isabella spots and at closer. Senior Mike Matura joining the team.

Benincasa impressed during the “She was on the junior high offseason and is also in the mix

By BRIAN KACHARABA

W

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team last year and she’s pretty good,” Tronolone said. “She knows what she’s doing [and] she’s athletic.”

Matura’s transition could be more seamless with catcher and fellow eighth-grader Kayla Santo, who batted .365 last year with 20 RBIs last year, as her batterymate. Tronolone

Joe Gisonda

feels that that relationship and their chemistry could prove to be beneficial to the season.

Rosetti, a fifth-year varsity

expected to start in left field and junior Ashley Toma will move to center this season.

Schedule BASEBALL

Matt Guilfoyle

April

8 9 11 15 16 17 22 23 25 29 30

Division @ Division Division Lynbrook @ Lynbrook Lynbrook @ North Shore North Shore @ North Shore @ Floral Park Floral Park

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

2 6 7 9

@ Floral Park Wantagh @ Wantagh Wantagh

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May

Victoria Rosetti player, will be the shortstop when she doesn’t pitch. She was the team’s top hitter last season with a .460 average to go with 12 RBIs, 23 runs scored.

Sophomore Jillian Cosme is back at third base and Emmy Saracino, who recorded the only other pitching win last season, will be at second. Sophomores Katie Davie and Lauren Flynn will split time at first base and are both strong defensively.

Sophomore Rebecca Testani is

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

SOFTBALL March

28 @ Locust Valley 30 Wheatley

April

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

2 4 6 9 11 15 17 25 27 30

Island Trees 4:30 p.m.

Herricks 4:45 p.m.

Sewanhaka 10:00 a.m. @ New Hyde Park 4:30 p.m. @ Mineola 4:30 p.m. @ Wantagh 4:30 p.m.

Locust Valley 4:30 p.m.

Oyster Bay 10:30 a.m. @ Island Trees 10:30 a.m. @ Herricks 4:30 p.m.

2 6 8 10

@ V.S. South New Hyde Park Glen Cove Wantagh

May

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Ron Manfredi

April 4, 2019 — 41

2019 HERALD high School Baseball / Softball Preview

V.S. South Falcons flying on new field Mendoza. He’ll likely be the leadoff hitter. Luke Costanzo has unlimited potential. Costanzo went 5-for11 against Island Trees when he laying among some was called up as a freshman. The perennially strong baseball talented sophomore can play just programs was daunting at times for Valley Stream South, but about anywhere on the diamond.

Junior third baseman Moises the Falcons had plenty of positives Doncell has a good glove and to draw from including a threeexcellent range. Senior Brian Degame sweep of Locust Valley and copain and junior Rob Deckel are victories over four playoff teams.

South, which will have a place competing for time at first base. to call home after a season of road Nicholas McCarthy and Justin Torgames, will compete in Conference res round out the roster.

A-5.

Lady Falcons soar a “It’s nice to be able to open the back door and go to practice,” few conferences Prior to the 2018 softball seaSouth coach Rich Hess said. “The son, South coach Demetri Adrahtas new field is state-of-the-art. Being was hopeful that his team would only 13 strong, we have to stay carry over its success from the healthy. Guys are going to play previous year. It didn’t disappoint. multiple positions. So far, they’re The Lady Falcons won their first working real well together.” nine games before finishing with Senior southpaw Shawn an impressive 12-3 record.

Leyaca will get the ball on MonSouth won the Nassau AB-VI title days. Leyeca mixes things up, and and was undefeated in crossover when he’s on, he’s a ground ball games against six teams from the machine. When he’s not pitching, conference above. Despite a jump Leyaca plays the outfield. of two conferences this spring, the Junior Mike Schippell commands his fastball and curve. Hess Lady Falcons should again be in hopes he’ll pitch deep into games. the hunt for a playoff berth.

Adrahtas expects his team Schippell is a fleet-footed outto be very competitive in its new fielder who gets a good jump on league. “We’re raw at a bunch of the ball. When he’s on base, he’s positions, but when you have a very difficult to throw out. Senior pitcher like we do, you’re going to Josh Paley will spot start and see be in every game,” Adrahtas said. time out of the pen.

Junior Matthew Dono has put “We’re strong defensively up the a ton of time into honing his skills. middle, and have some real good He’ll play a middle infield position athletes.”

Junior pitcher Isabella Secairaand pitch late in the week. Dono Cotto, a three-time All-County should be one of the team’s top selection, returns in the circle. run producers. Kyle Barry always Secaira-Cotto held opponents to gives a quality at bat. The senior two or fewer runs in 11 of her 15 captain will catch and see time at starts and pitched a perfect game first base. Junior Shane Cook is a against Hewlett. She’s just as valuable utility man. dominant at the plate, where she The Falcons have an abovehit over .700 as a sophomore. average middle infielder in junior Isabella Grasso will be behind the Jayden Mendoza. In critical spots, plate for her third varsity season. the team wants balls hit to

By ANDREW MCCLURE

P

The junior catcher has improved defensively, and is coming off a season that saw her hit .500.

The Lady Falcons will be solid in the infield. Freshman Ysabella Quinones is a highly-skilled player who flashes a great glove and is tough to keep off the basepaths.

Junior Ariana Greif, a three-year varsity player, is very reliable at second base.

Trinity Smiley, an athletic eighth-grader, has tremendous upside. She’ll be the team’s

Isabella Secaira-Cotto

Schedule BASEBALL April

Matt Guilfoyle 8 @ Clarke 9 11 15 16 17 22 23 25 29 30

Clarke @ Clarke Island Trees @ Island Trees Island Trees Locust Valley @ Locust Valley Locust Valley Mineola @ Mineola

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

2 6 7 9

Mineola @ Seaford Seaford @ Seaford

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May

Kyle Barry everyday third baseman and could see time at other positions. Adriana Heneghan improved considerably at first base as a junior. Heneghan is a long ball threat at the plate.

Senior Karina Gonzalez and junior Kayla Espinal are quality outfielders. Senior Nathalie Bayer’s bat is a must in the lineup. Sophomore Sophia Longid, the strongest player from last year’s JV, likely gets the nod in right field. Sophomore Sarah Desrosiers and senior Carol Sandoval are vying for time in the outfield.

SOFTBALL March 28 @ Oyster Bay 30 Wantagh

April

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

2 4 6 9 11 13 15 17 27 30

@ Sewanhaka 4:30 p.m.

Glen Cove 4:30 p.m. @ New Hyde Park 10:30 a.m.

Mineola 4:30 p.m.

Herricks 4:45 p.m. @ Locust Valley 10:30 a.m.

Wheatley 4:30 p.m.

Oyster Bay 4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

Sewanhaka @ Glen Cove 4:30 p.m.

2 6 8 10

V.S. North @ Mineola @ Island Trees @ Wheatley

May

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by John Heckman

42 — April 4, 2019

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

2019 HERALD High School Baseball / Softball Preview

2019

Nassau CouNty softball CoNfereNCes ConferenCe AA-I

1. Massapequa Chiefs 2. East Meadow Jets 3. Oceanside Sailors 4. Farmingdale Dalers 5. Port Washington Vikings

ConferenCe AA-II

1. Hicksville Comets 2. Long Beach Marines 3. Baldwin Bruins 4. Syosset Braves 5. Plainview Hawks

ConferenCe AA-III

1. Freeport Red Devils 2. Uniondale Knights 3. Hempstead Tigers 4. Westbury Green Dragons

ConferenCe AB-I

1. Carey Seahawks 2. Division Dragons 3. Mepham Pirates 4. Calhoun Colts 5. MacArthur Generals 6. Seaford Vikings

ConferenCe AB-II

1. Plainedge Red Devils 2. Clarke Rams 3. Bethpage Golden Eagles 4. East Rockaway Rocks 5. South Side Cyclones 6. Kennedy Cougars

Jenna Laird East Meadow High School Photo by John Heckman

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HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

ConferenCe AB-III

1. New Hyde Park Gladiators 2. Wantagh Warriors 3. Island Trees Bulldogs 4. V.S. North Spartans 5. Locust Valley Falcons 6. Herricks Highlanders

ConferenCe AB-IV

1. Oyster Bay Baymen 2. V.S. South Falcons 3. Glen Cove Big Red 4. Wheatley Wildcats 5. Sewanhaka Indians 6. Mineola Mustangs

ConferenCe AB-V

1. North Shore Vikings 2. Manhasset Indians 3. Garden City Trojans 4. Lynbrook Owls 5. West Hempstead Rams 6. Jericho Jayhawks

ConferenCe AB-VI

1. C.S. Harbor Seahawks 2. Carle Place Frogs 3. Floral Park Knights 4. G.N. South Rebels 5. Hewlett Bulldogs 6. Elmont Spartans

ConferenCe AB-VII

1. Roslyn Bulldogs 2. G.N. North Blazers 3. Lawrence Golden Tornadoes 4. Malverne Mules 5. V.S. Central Eagles 6. Roosevelt Rough Riders

April 4, 2019 — 43

2019 HERALD high School Baseball / Softball Preview

Wantagh

Warriors reboot after Three-Peat

By ANDREW COEN

W

antagh captured a third straight Long Island baseball title last year with veteran players and will look to get back to the top of the mountain with an almost entirely new team.

The Warriors return just one starter off last year’s 24-3 team that reached the Class A state semifinals. Despite a lack of experience, longtime coach Keith Sachs is firmly focused on continuing Wantagh’s momentum with an aim at making the playoffs for the 26th straight year since he took over the program in 1994.

“Every year we expect to compete for a championship,” Sachs said. “We never change our goals.”

Mason McLane is back as Wantagh’s lone returning starter following an All-Conference season. The versatile senior will take the mound as one of the Warriors’ three starting pitchers and also anchor the infield at shortstop.

“He can do anything,” Sachs said of McLane. “He has no ceiling.”

Senior Ethan Herman joins McLane on the pitching staff after tossing some key innings out of the bullpen last spring. Junior Matt Saborio is also looking to make his mark as a starting pitcher after shining on JV last year.

Senior Dylan Scott is poised to lead the pitching staff from behind the plate after serving as backup catcher last year. Fellow seniors John Bednor, Ray Rathgaber, Spencer Gustofson are also excited for their turn to start after backing up senior standouts a year ago.

John Jay Devito, Nick O’Connor, Peter DelGais and Rich Russo were called up from JV last May for the Warriors playoff run and will look to step up in their first full seasons 44 — April 4, 2019

on varsity.

“We have a lot of guys fighting for spots,” Sachs said. “They were just stuck behind some good guys last year and now they are ready for their turn.”

Wantagh will face a grueling Class A schedule that includes three-game sets against conference rivals Division, North Shore, Floral Park, Lynbrook and Valley Stream North. The league schedule begins on April 8 against North Shore, a team the Warriors eliminated from last year’s playoffs.

Brighter future for Lady Warriors Wantagh returns all but one starter from a playoff team a year ago and has added depth in the program for the future.

The Lady Warriors have 23 players on the softball field this spring allowing longtime coach Christine Moran to field a junior varsity program for the first time in six years. The 12 players on varsity are stacked with experience and eyeing a conference title after finishing second in Conference A-III last season.

“Our expectation is to win the conference then win one in the playoffs at least,” said Moran, who led Hofstra softball to three straight NCAA Tournament appearances from 1999 to 2001.

Sophomore shortstop Emily Van O’Linda anchors the Lady Warriors bats after earning All-Conference Honorable Mention accolades as a freshman. The younger sister of former Wantagh standouts Julie Van O’Linda and Kelly Van O’Linda is already in her fourth season on varsity after first making the big club in seventh grade.

“She has made a serious commitment and is putting in countless hours,” Moran said of O’Linda. “She should be All-County this year.”

Senior right fielder Kaley

Butcher will look to ignite the Wantagh offense as a speedy leadoff hitter. Fellow senior outfielders Jill Collins and Katie Skaar add further experience to the lineup along with junior third baseman Nalani O’Brien, who has taken on an increased leadership role.

“She is the heart and soul of the team,” Moran said of O’Brien.

“She does everything.”

Junior Shayna DeRosa is set to lead a deep pitching staff that also includes senior Nicole Tague and seventh grader Julia Manicalo. DeRosa emerged as a reliable presence in the circle while recording eight wins during her sophomore

Mason McLane

Schedule BASEBALL

Matt Guilfoyle

April

8 9 11 15 16 17 22 23 24 29 30

North Shore @ North Shore North Shore Floral Park @ Floral Park Floral Park @ Lynbrook Lynbrook @ Lynbrook @ Division Division

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

2 6 7 9

@ Division @ V.S. North V.S. North @ V.S. North

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

May

Shelby DeRosa campaign.

“She has improved her control and has great spin on he ball,” said Moran of DeRosa, who smacked a tying two-run homer in the seventh inning of Wantagh’s first round 7-6 playoff loss to Mepham. “She has put in the work.”

Wantagh will compete in Conference AB-III with New Hyde Park, Island Trees, Valley Stream North, Locust Valley and Herricks.

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PREVIEW

SOFTBALL March

28 @ New Hyde Park 4:45 p.m.

30 @ V.S. South 10:00 a.m.

April

2 4 6 8 9 11 15 17 24 30

@ Locust Valley @ Island Trees Glen Cove Locust Valley Herricks @ Wheatley V.S. North New Hyde Park Sewanhaka Island Trees

2 6 8 10

@ Mineola @ Herricks Oyster Bay @ V.S. North

May

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

Photos by Donovan Berthoud

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April 4, 2019 — 45

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2019 HERALD High school Baseball / softball preview

WesT HempsTead Rams could compete for top spot

By ANDREW MCCLURE

T

he West Hempstead boys come off a season that yielded 11 victories. The Rams, once again, will play in the Nassau Countywide Conference.

The league exists to provide struggling programs with the opportunity to build themselves up while facing opponents with similar ability levels.

The Rams return one of the league’s top players, some talented and experienced seniors, and a few hard-working underclassmen. If things fall into place, West Hempstead could compete with Sewanhaka, Uniondale, and Roosevelt for the league title.

Rams coach Chris DeMarzo likes the direction of his program.

“We are where we belong for now, but we’re building something here,” DeMarzo said. “The guys did a lot of work on hitting and fielding in an indoor facility to prepare for the season. If we can stay healthy, we think we could be at the top of the league. We’re definitely making progress.”

Brendan Williams is a rising star. The sophomore southpaw, who will take over as the team’s No. 1 starter, throws hard and has command of four pitches. At the plate, Williams led the team in hitting as a freshman and has power.

He’ll play left field when he’s not on the mound.

DeMarzo is hoping for big things from Jake Suffa. The sophomore catcher has a knack for reaching base. Suffa will also pitch. Senior shortstop Nick Duran is a power threat. Duran will likely hit in the three or four hole. He will also pitch and possibly see time behind the plate.

Senior Kevin Corcoran returns at third base. Corcoran has a great

glove and swings the bat well.

Senior Joe Chambers figures to be the team’s first baseman. Senior Nick Agro returns to roam center field for the Rams.

West Hempstead has a group of youngsters who figure to be a big part of the present and future of the program. Freshman Dominick Cavallo could earn the nod at second base. Tyler Olszewski has a good glove. He’ll see time at second base and catcher.

Another promising young player is freshman middle infielder Petro Adikimenakis.

Fundamentals a key for Lady Rams

West Hempstead, which followed up its 2017 campaign with another 10-win softball season, lost a couple games in the early going last spring, but then ran off eight consecutive victories. With a veteran pitcher in the circle and some experienced returnees, the Rams are looking for another strong year.

The team moves up a level to Nassau Conference AB-V, a league composed of Garden City, Manhasset, Jericho, Lynbrook, and North Shore.

Coach Chris Van Kovics believes that playing fundamentally sound softball is the key to success. “If the pitchers throw strikes and we play the defense we’re capable of, we should be ok,” Van Kovics said. “We have just about everyone back. We have to do the little things right. When you put the ball in play, good things can happen. We have some speed, so I think we should be able to scratch out runs.”

Junior Danielle Cavallo has been consistent in the circle over the past two seasons. Cavallo picked up all 10 of the team’s wins as a sophomore. Battery mate Kate

Shanley is the heart and soul of the team. The junior catcher led the team with six roundtrippers in 2018.

Senior center fielder Sydney Reitz, a four-year varsity starter, can bat just about anywhere in the order and has the range to track down balls in the gaps. Sophomore Deanna Palermo returns in left field.

Senior shortstop Sara Welti in the backbone of the infield. Welti is quick and athletic, and, like Weitz, she gives Van Kovics flexibility by being able to hit in multiple spots in the lineup. Junior third baseman Jenna Eivazi has plenty of pop in her bat. Eivazi will occupy a spot in the middle of the order.

Junior Madison Sturm will

Sydney Reitz

Schedule BASEBALL April 1 @ Elmont 2 @ Elmont 4 @ Roosevelt 8 @ Roosevelt 9 @ Lawrence 11 @ Lawrence Matt Guilfoyle 16 @ Uniondale 17 @ Friends Academy 22 @ Friends Academy 29 @ Westbury 30 @ Westbury

May

Brendan Williams play second base and the also play some outfield. Senior Julianna Close will handle first base duties, with sister Madelyn, a junior, seeing time in both the outfield and infield. Eighth-grader Ashley Boodoo needs some more seasoning, but will likely get on the diamond at the varsity level.

2 3 6 7 9

Sewanhaka @ Uniondale @ Sewanhaka @ G.N. North G.N. North

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

SOFTBALL March

27 @ Lynbrook 30 @ Hewlett

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

April 2 3 6 9 11 16 17 25 27 30

@ Manhasset @ North Shore @ Elmont @ Garden City @ C.S. Harbor @ Jericho @ Lynbrook @ Carle Place @ Manhasset @ North Shore

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

10:30 a.m.

4:30 p.m.

May 2 6 8 9

@ Floral Park Garden City G.N. South @ Jericho

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4:45 p.m.

Photos by Sue Grieco

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April 4, 2019 — 47

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