NE Division 2 Top 5 Rankings and Recruits

With fall ball approaching, we felt it was time to rattle off our top 5 rankings and recruits for the top 5 division one teams in New England, headed into the season.

#1: Franklin Pierce Ravens (NE10):

Last years record: 48-4
League finish: 1st
National Rank: 3rd
Is it even a question? Ravens had their best season record wise in school history a year ago, Coach King continues to get the most out of his players and put out a team that competes nationally every single year. Ravens fell short in the East Region and were unable to reach the World Series but they have the guys to compete for it once again in 2015.
Top recruits from New England Area: C David Nelson (John Stark Regional) Nelson is listed at 6'3, 190 lbs and is a very good defensive catcher who can swing a good bat, with the loss of captain Matt Walsh, Nelson can compete for the starting job right away. He was one of NH's top players this past spring. RHP Ben Mallet (Monadnock) the hard throwing righty's fastball can get up to 87 MPH, he was heavily recruited by many D1 teams last summer, he threw two no hitters at his time at Monadnock and will continue to dominate on the mound at Franklin Pierce, Mallett was ranked 17th according to NETopProspects.com about a year ago. RHP Hudson Hagland (Tilton School) Hagland accepted a scholarship to FPU this past year, ranked as one of the top pitching prospects in New Hampshire this past year, was dominant on the mound for Tilton this year, the 6'2 righty's fastball tops out at 83. RHP Zach Dionne (Tolland, CT) Dionne plays for a very good summer team in Team Connecticut baseball, the righty was heavily recruited by several D1 and D2 schools before choosing FPU, one of top pitchers in CT and his fastball has been recorded at 84-85.

#2: Southern New Hampshire University Penman (NE10):

Last years record: 31-14
League finish: 3rd
National Ranking: 18th
When head coach Scott Loiseau left the Penman weeks prior to the start of the season, it was a tough hit for the Penman as they had to deal with getting use to life without him. A little bit of a roller coaster season for the Penman but they battled and found themselves back in the East Regional. Scott Loiseau returns this season for the Penman which is why many think they can now be a contender for the World Series. All league SS Manny Cruz returns as well as Zach Goldstein and Mikr Robert. Watch out for the Penman this year.
Top Recruits from New England Area: RHP Connor Gavin (East Bridgewater) Listed at 6'3 215, the All Scholastic and Boston Herald Division 3 Player of the Year, Gavin was a horse on the mound for East Bridgewater leading them to a D3 South championship. Gavin's fastball sits upper 80's and will be a dominant arm for the Penman in due time. LHP Brendan Welch (Oliver Ames) Welch was named Boston Herald Division 2 Player of the Year, the three time all league pitcher led OA in wins, ERA and innings pitched, the big lefty is listed at 6'4 215 and his fastball is recorded at mid to upper 80's. RHP Rob Carillo (Bishop Fenwick) Carillo is coming off a great career at the highly touted Bishop Fenwick, Carillo is known for his heavy fastball and ability to spot his fastball, he was a two time Central Catholic league all star. SS Ryan Spagnoli (Arlington Catholic) Spagnoli, two time Catholic Central League all star, Perfect Game All New England Second team, is known for his lockdown defense and very good arm strength and range at shortstop, one of the top shortstops across the state for his class, contact hitter who uses whole field. 2B Josh Goldstein (Haverhill) Goldstein is coming off a nice career at HHS, known for his defense and ability to make good plays, contact hitter who has some pop in his bat. C Josh Zibierski (East Catholic) One of Connecticut's top catchers the past few years,  helped lead East Catholic to top ranked team in the state most of the spring, the 6'3, 220 lbs catcher has some serious power and is improving defensively, Josh is a very good player and will only get better. 3B/P Tyler Shemick(La Salle): Shemick was a force both at the plate and on the mound for La Salle, throwing two no hitters, also hit .350 while driving in 18 runs. OF Christian Aybar (Bishp Hendricken) won four state titles at Hendricken, one of Rhode Islands top outfielders and hitters, velocity from outfield is crazy, all state team, will be a great players for Penman in future.

#3: Stonehill Skyhawks (NE10):

Last years record:  34-15-1
League finish: 2nd
National Rank: 21st
Stonehill's upset of SNHU in NE10 semis and first East Region appearance in some time was enough to call it a very successful season in 2014-2015. Coach Pat Boen's Skyhawks are now looked at as one of the best D2 teams in New England, Stonewall could very well push SNHU and FPU for this years NE10 title and maybe even East Region. 
Top Recruits from New England Area: LHP Aran Grenham-Hamilton (BBN) One year removed from having a stroke while pitching, Hamilton had a very good spring for the Knights help leading them to an ISL title. His fastball ranges from 85-86 and will be a very good pitcher right away for the Knights. Very similar to current Skyhawks pitcher Jeremy Roberts. SS Matt Rocco (Newington, CT) Rocco is one of Connecticut's top shortstops, his above average range and arm strength make him a huge pickup for the Skyhawks. He plays his summer ball with Baseball Unlimited. C Harry Sabo (Wilton, CT)  Sabo is listed at 6'3, 210, his power bat will be a force for the Skyhawks in the middle of their order. Sabo is a good defensive catcher with a good pop time, he was heavily recruited by NESCAC schools before choosing Stonehill. OF Patrick Downey (Xavier, CT) Downey is another Connecticut kid who was listed on the Perfect Game All East Region team, very good speed, and a very good defender who can play all outfield positions.

#4: New Haven Chargers (NE10):

Last years finish: 17-16
League finish: 4th
National Rank: NR
New Haven had a good year under a first year head coach Chris Celano, they fell to Stonewall in the semis in the NE10 playoffs, but New Haven always wins and are destined to once again this year.
Top Recruits from New England Area: NO PLAYERS LISTED FROM NE AREA




#5: Merrimack Warriors (NE10):

Last years record: 17-17
League finish: 8th
National Rank: NR
Even though the only player drafted from the NE10 was wearing a Merrimack jersey (Frank Crinella) it wasn't enough to give the Warriors enough to beat powerhouse Franklin Pierce in the first round. 
Top recruits from New England Area: SS Jack Campsmith(Chelmsford): Two way star, Campmith, will play both baseball and football for the Warriors. Very good arm strength, could potentially be in the running to replace star Frank Crinella (who turned pro). OF Armani Henderson (La Salle) One of Rhode Islands top players, battled a wrist injury this year but was still a big help to La Salle in their playoff run, All League selection and helped lead La Salle to state finals in 2014.

*all commitments on players are based off Perfect Game and information off google searches 

NE Division 1 Top 5 Rankings and Recruits

With fall ball approaching, we felt it was time to rattle off our top 5 rankings and recruits for the top 5 division one teams in New England, headed into the season.

1. Boston College Eagles (ACC):

Last Years record: 27-27
League finish: Last
National Ranking: 81
We may shock you with this choice for our number one but we feel the Eagles have what it takes to compete this year. Despite having just a .500 record last year, the Eagles keep improving in the wins column as the years go by and with a loaded 2015 recruitment class coming in, the Eagles can compete this year and will be one of the best teams in New England. Despite the loss of first rounder Chris Shaw, the Eagles should be just fine offensively.
Top Recruits (from New England Area): Eagles have quite the pitching staff coming in, landing some of the top pitchers Massachusetts. LHP Dan Metzdorf (BBN): Metzdorf is a left handed pitcher, who is listed at 5'10", but don't let his size fool you, the lefty sits around 88 MPH and was dominant on the hill for the Knights. The All-League lefty mounted a 8-0 record with a 1.06 ERA this spring. He is playing his summer ball with the North Shore Navigators of the FCBL where he is 0-1 while posting a 3.62 ERA in 22.1 innings pitched. RHP Thomas Lane (Phillips Andover) RHP who is listed at 6'5, 245 lbs. His fastball sits upper 80's, was the PBR New England Player of the year and he also plays his summer ball with the Navs posting a 1-1 record with a 3.66 ERA in 19 innings pitched. Austin Batchelor (Malden Catholic) The righty is listed at 6'3, 185 lbs and successfully came off Tommy John as hi fastball is clocked at upper 80's, All State team in MA and is currently playing summer ball with the North Shore Navigators. Concluding our Massachusetts pitchers is RHP John Witowski (Avon Old Farms) the 6'6 RHP from Melrose is clocked at lower 90's at times, the all-league pitcher should throw some big innings for the Eagles this spring. C Gian Martellini (Bishop Hendricken) the former Vanderbilt commit, decommitted from there and is now one of the Birdballers top recruits. The catcher is a four time state champion for the Hawks of Bishop Hendricken, two time Rhode Island player of the year and two time Gatorade Player of the Year hit .408 this spring with four homers and twenty eight RBI's leading the Hawks to their fourth straight state title, the future starting catcher for the Eagles could be a first round pick come his junior year..he is that good. 1B Connor Bacon (Hudson, MA) 6'2 205 pound first baseman is a huge power bat for the Eagles.

# 2: UConn Huskies (AAC)

Last years finish: 35-24
League finish: 3rd
National Ranking: 47
Huskies are probably the most consistent team as far as Division 1 programs go in New England. Coming off of a season where they were just two games shy of a conference championship, the Huskies are bound to be in a similar situation this year to compete for the league title.
Top recruits (from New England Area): PJ Poulin (Tabor Academy) LHP who sits per 80's with a tight slider, was one of the most dominant pitcher we saw all spring, led Tabor to NEPSAC title his junior year, will be a dominant pitcher for Huskies come the spring. Top recruit OF Liam Scaffariello (Southington, CT) was drafted by the Braves in this years MLB draft but decided to turn down the pro contract and head to UConn. Scaffaeriello was heavily recruited by several SEC schools and chose the Huskies, huge get for Huskies as he could a be a very high round pick his junior year if he keeps progressing. RHP Ronnie Rossomando (Bunnell HS) another recruit of the Huskies drafted by the Reds, but according to sources he will head to UConn in the fall, 6'5 righty has a very heavy fastball and could find himself in the rotation right away. RHP Randy Polonia (Stamford, CT) RHP has a a four pitch arsenal and commands the strike zone very well.

#3: Bryant Bulldogs (NEC)

Last years finish: 27-24
League finish: 1st
National Ranking: 163
Bryant is one of the most consistent baseball teams in the New England area, Steve Owens Bulldogs won their third straight NEC title and lost in the East Region this past year. Bryant continues to rebuild and get better and better each year, I wouldn't be surprised if you find them in a Super Regional sometime soon.
Top Recruits (from New England Area): RHP Mason Palmieri (Lincoln) the 6'5, 220 lbs righty has a very heavy fastball, the all league pitcher was a dominant arm in the New England area for quite sometime now, Palmieri has the arm to pitch some big innings for the Bulldogs right away. OF Nick Angellini (Bedford NH) Angellini is a good bat and defensive outfielder and was heavily recruited by all D1 schools around here before choosing Bryant, he will shape out to be a very good player for the Bulldogs in a year or so.

#4: University of Rhode Island (A-10)

Last years finish: 25-24-1
League finish: 2nd
National Ranking: 132
A big year for the Rams and first year head coach Raphael Cerrato. Just a year ago when coach Jim Foster left after a 13-40 season, Cerrato came in and shocked a lot of people leading the Rams to a record over .500 and second in the A10.
Top Recruits (from New England are): With Top recruit Seamus Curran signing with the Orioles, the  Rams must turn the page and look into finding another power bat at that position. The only New England recruit coming in is C Mike Campatelli (Bishop Fenwick) Campatelli, two time Catholic Central league all star, led the Crusaders in batting average this spring and was one of the best defensive catchers in Mass this spring.

#5: Holy Cross Crusaders (Patriot League)

Last years finish: 24-26
League finish: 5th
National Ranking: 176
Crusaders continue to compete in the Patriot League and recruit well. Coach Greg Dicenzo has the team to compete again next year and years to come.
Top recruits (from New England Area): RHP Pat McGowan (St. Sebastians) McGowan has a fastball that sits in the mid to upper 80's and commands the strike zone very well. Wouldn't be surprised at all if Pat pitches some big innings for the Crusaders this spring.

*rankings are opinionated only and player information came from google searches and Perfect Game USA

La Salle's, Shemick, chooses SNHU

Tyler Shemick of Foster, RI, a rising senior at La Salle Academy, announced his commitment to SNHU last Tuesday via Twitter. The corner infielder and right handed pitcher helped lead La Salle to the State Championship, they however fell to Bishop Hendricken in the finals but Shemick was a big piece to helping them get there. He hit .330 this spring and on the mound he was 8 and 0 with an ERA of 0.82 and was Top 5 in the state for strikeouts. He was First Team All Division and Second Team All State. We caught up with "Shem" and asked him some questions on his commitment.

Why did you choose SNHU? Did anything stick out to you when you visited, How do you like the coaching staff etc.?
" I chose SNHU because I fell in love with the atmosphere of the school. When I went there for my first visit, I noticed that everyone was  friendly and it looked like that they also loved the school. I loved how the campus is in the country because I grew up living in the country. I thought that every building was beautiful and everything looked like it was well maintained. Another reason why I wanted to go to SNHU is because of the baseball coaching staff. Coach Loiseau and Coach Austin are not just coaches that know about the game. They also bond with their teammates and help them to become a better baseball players physically and mentally."

Have you had a special coach or family member that led you to this great accomplishment? If so or both, what did they do for you to reach this?

"I have had many special coaches throughout the years helping me to become a better baseball player. First I would thank my mom and dad. They have been there for me supporting my love for the game and helping me out anyway they could. My dad especially went out of his way to teach and train me to be my best. I definitely would not be where I am today without them. I would also like to thank Ryan Leahy from Recruiting Edge baseball. Last year I played for Coach Leahy and he physically and mentally made me a better baseball player. If I made a mistake he told me not to worry about it and get the next play. He also was making sure that I was progressing at everything I do. The third person I would like to thank is  Geoff Marcone and the coaching staff from La Salle Academy. They taught me that being a team of brothers is better than a team of individuals. Brothers stick together no matter what the situation is rather kicking the team down. Brothers also pick each other up if someone makes a mistake. I would like to thank Wade Briggs, my pitching coach for everything that he has done for me. He made me a better and smarter pitcher. He taught me that if I ever struggle I should go back to my mechanics and stay relaxed. Lastly I would like to thank the coaching staff at Legends Baseball. I have played for them for three years and they incredible coaches. They know how to get a run in when it is important and to motivate the team. They are one of the best AAU organizations there is."

What are you looking forward to the most at SNHU?

"I am really looking forward to learning how to be a better baseball player from SNHU's coaching staff. I am also looking forward to build a family with my upcoming teammates. I know that they are a great group of guys and it will be fun competing for a national championship with them."

What things are you going to try and improve before college?

"The things that I will work on in the next couple years is becoming the best team player that I can be. I am also going to make sure that I am working in the gym to get stronger and better."

Lastly, your teammate Ryan Spagnoli recently committed to SNHU this week as well, what is your relationship with him like and what can you say about him as a person.

"Spags is one of the best teammates I have ever had and I love him like a brother. Him and I always used to joke around saying that we might be roommates at SNHU in the beginning. It is funny now that I realize it actually might happen. It is like a dream come true. I played with him for two years in the Legends Organization and he is one of the most competitive kids I know. He truly is a great leader. When the team is down he picks everyone up and gets them motivated no matter what the situation is. He played second base for our team and he is a phenomenal baseball player. He gives every play one hundred percent. I am really looking forward to playing with him in the next four years."

Arlington Catholic's star, Spagnoli, commits to SNHU

Arlington Catholic's Ryan Spagnoli announced his commitment to play college baseball at Southern New Hampishire. Here is him firing a strike from shortstop in the spring.

Ryan Spagnoli (2B/SS) has always had a dream of playing college baseball and on Friday his dream came true as he announced on his twitter page that he verbally committed to Southern New Hampshire University (15th in the country) for the fall of 2015.

"@RSpagnoli3: Proud to announce my commitment to play college baseball at SNHU! Thanks to everyone who's helped me along the way! #GoPenman #D2Powerhouse"

Spagnoli, who will officially be a four year starter for the Cougars of Arlington Catholic next spring, hit .354 this spring and played tremendous defense for the Cougars helping them win just there third league title in twenty five years. Spagnoli was nominated as Catholic Central League All Star for his efforts to the baseball team. However, Spagnoli isn't just a baseball player, he's also a very talented hockey player as well. The Burlington, MA native, will be a four year starter in hockey as well. Just like in baseball, Ryan was nominated as Catholic Central League All Star this past year for hockey and will also captain the hockey team this winter as well. This past season Ryan was in the Top 10 in the league in scoring with 10 goals and 9 assists finishing with 19 points in 20 games while playing some of Massachusetts best high school teams the state.

"I will always have love and passion for the game of hockey and I am truly going to miss it after this year, but baseball has always been my number one ever since I was little. I fell in love with the game at such a young age, and I've always wanted to chase my dreams in baseball." Spagnoli stated when asked about why he chose baseball instead of hockey.

We caught up with "Spags" and asked him some questions on why he chose Southern New Hampshire:

With you potentially being a Division one player, what made you choose a Division 2 school like SNHU?
"I chose SNHU because of the great tradition and opportunity there. Coach Loiseau and his staff have really built this school as a nationally ranked powerhouse and I want to help continue this success and hopefully win a National Championship during my time there. Also, I really liked the coaching staff at SNHU, they have a lot of fun coaching and I think that's the best part and makes it more enjoyable for us as players. I really like how the staff pushes there players but at the same time really cares for them, I wanted someone who would push me to be the best player possible but also someone who I could go to if I needed help on or off the field, and I felt SNHU's staff really hit the nail on the head for that. It's truly an honor to be able to wear that Penman jersey, I'm already counting down the days until I get there!"

What did you really like at SNHU? What made you make your decision to commit to SNHU?
"Like I said before, the coaching staff really did it for me. They have had a lot of success and will continue to get better each year. I really liked the campus and facilities they had to offer and the winning tradition they have at SNHU. Also being apart of a great team of great players. I'm truly blessed" 

Was there any special coach, parent, or mentor that really helped you reach your accomplishment? If so, how were they such a big impact on your commitment?
"Of course. It's hard to mention everyone who has helped me over my career, but these people were a big help to me. First off, I wouldn't be where I am today without my amazing family, especially my mom and dad. All the money and time they have spent is something that I will never be able to pay back, but most importantly there love and support. They have stuck by my side through the good and bads of not only baseball but just in everyday life. I love them and owe them the world. Second, Ryan Leahy with Recruiting Edge Baseball, he was my coach for a year but has been my recruiting adviser for a few years now. Ryan has always been there for me, calling schools, helping me with hitting and defense, keeping me up to date in the classroom. He really taught me how to play 100% all the time and to play the game the right way all the time. I wouldn't be where I am in baseball today without his help, I owe him the world, he helped make this all possible. Third, My little league coach and best friends father, Pat O'Halloran. He really made me fall in love with this amazing game at such a young age since he coached me from 8-12 years old. He taught me mental toughness, intensity and how to have a drive to always play your best and win every time you step on the field. Also, he's always there for me if I ever needed it. Lastly, the whole staff and my teammates at Legends Baseball. The coaches have taught me so much over the years and my teammates have been there for me as best friends and have picked me up several times. I am truly going to miss wearing that Legends jersey."


Earlier this week your longtime teammate, Tyler Shemick, also committed to SNHU? What's your relationship with him?
"Shem has been one of my best friends for a few years now, when we go away with Legends we've roomed together for two straight years. When we actually first got contacted about SNHU we would always joke about how we may be roomamates and teammates again  and for that to come true is something that will make SNHU even more fun. Shem is one of the most hardworking, intense players I've ever played with and a kid who would give you his shirt off his back, I'm really looking forward to spending another four years with him!"


So far in your baseball career, what was the most memorable game(s) or season(s)and why?
"Wow, haha, this is a tough one. My most memorable season was when I won the State Championship my twelve year old season, we ended up losing a heartbreaker in the regional finals, one game away from the Cal Ripken World Series, but I gained so many great memories from that summer. It will always be with me. Also, the past three seasons with Legends, we won over 120 games, winning several tournaments all over the East Coast, and every kid I played with I considered a brother, we were a big family, and I know will all stay in touch through college."

Ryan sure has a great future in not only baseball but life as well. We wish him nothing but the best in his future.

Peabody's finest, Hosman, commits to UMass

Matt Hosman. I'm sure you've heard that name before since Hosman was the one who hit the walk-off grand slam sending Peabody to Williamsport in 2009. However, Matt continued to progress as a player as he announced that he has committed to UMass-Amherst via his twitter account on Tuesday night.

"@MattHosman24: Blessed to be verbally committed to play Division 1 baseball at Umass Amherst #A10"

Hosman, who attends Phillips Andover, has been a three year starter at Phillips and has own two New England titles during his time there. He also plays basketball there as well, but according to Matt he isn't one of their top players. Earlier this summer, Matt was chosen to the First Team Perfect Game All American at their academic showcase. Matt played his summer ball with the 18U New England Ruffnecks.

We caught up with "Hoz" and asked him some questions.

Why did you choose UMass? Did anything stick out when you visited?
"I chose UMass for several reasons. They have a very good program for my major, business. The Atlantic 10 conference is a very good conference. When I visited, I felt like the facilities (locker room, weight room, and training room) would help give me the best opportunity to get better. The coaching staff is very knowledgeable and they felt like I fit into their game plan very well."

What are you looking forward to the most at UMass?
"I am looking forward to the overall experience that UMass offers and the chance to be a part of a team that continually performs well in the Beanpot and against New England teams, and then is competitive with teams from the South and throughout the A10. "


Is here anything you want to work on before you get to campus?
"I want to gain strength before arriving on campus. I think that is the thing I need to work on the most. I want to continue to be a team guy first while always jumping at opportunities to get better."

Have you had a special coach or family member that has led you to this great accomplishment?
"My father was a huge help to me during my baseball career. I have a batting cage in my backyard, and my dad is always willing to throw me BP. He has been nothing but supportive. He coached me through Little League, but when I got to middle school age, he let me go on my own and learn from coaches that were not him. I've had a lot of influential coaches during my high school career. The confidence he gave to me all throughout my career helped me to improve an incredible amount. My mother is a schoolteacher and she has always demanded that I do well academically. She is part of the reason I took on the challenges of Phillips Andover. She always made sure that I did my academic work before baseball came into the picture. Last summer, I played for Legends Baseball and coach Ryan Leahy. He pushed every one of us to become better, and he expected the best. I grew so much as a player and a person that summer. This summer, I played for the Ruffnecks and Coaches Matt Blake and Kevin Casey. They gave me ample opportunity to work on my game and believed in my abilities the whole summer. My high school coach Kevin Graber is perhaps the most influential. Being at a boarding school, he takes on so many more roles than just a coach. He is an advisor, a house counselor, and an admissions officer. He lives right on campus, so it is easy to access him at all times, and his door is always wide open for us. "
What has been your biggest moment throughout your baseball career?
"My biggest moment was probably winning the league title at Holy Cross freshman year. Being a big part of a championship team right away was special to me. We went on to win another championship sophomore year and we have one last chance this spring."

Three Sport Athlete, Endy Sanchez, commits to West Virginia

Hard throwing right handed pitcher, Endy Sanchez, announced over the weekend via his Twitter account that he has committed to West Virginia for the fall of 2015.

"@EndyLoso12: Recruiting process is finally over, I have committed to play baseball at West Virginia University!! #LetsGoMountaineers #Big12

Endy Sanchez is a football, basketball and baseball star at Suffield Academy, so it's proven right here that this kid is a freak athlete. Endy attended Holyoke High School (MA) from his freshman year to junior year, then repeated his junior year at Suffield Academy, and is set to graduate from there in May of 2015. During his times at Holyoke, Endy was first team All Western Mass back to back seasons for baseball. The switch to Suffield Academy didn't seem to phase him as he was Second Team All Western Mass and Second Team All League in both Football and Baseball this past year. Sanchez's family was from Puerto Rico but Endy was born and raised in Holyoke. But what Endy proved is that working hard and always having someone by your side, helps you reach your dreams. At the beginning of high school Endy was a kid with no confidence at all and not a very athletic body. With the help of Harry Melendez and his mother, these two individuals were always there for him and always pushing him to do well in the classroom and on the playing fields. It goes without saying that those two were a big part on Endy's accomplishments. Endy is a hard working, humble and enthusiastic person who adapts to new places very well, so the switch to West Virginia I'm sure will not phase him. Endy is currently playing his summer ball with the 17U Northeast Baseball Rays, and his fastball sits 88-91 MPH. Anyways, we caught up with Endy and asked him a few questions.

 

Why did you choose West Virginia? Did anything stick out to you when you visited, How do you like the coaching staff etc.?

"I chose West Virginia University because I believe the coaching staff there are fairly new and I know they are bringing that team to the top and I want to be apart of something just taking off than something already established, and I wanted the full college experience. Other reasons I chose WVU,  it was financially a better option for me, my mom planned on moving to Virginia so she could be closer to me so being far away from home is no issue! Lastly, I loved the interest the coaches showed and the plans they have for me once I get there! The coaches seem very dedicated, determined and have a lot of baseball knowledge and that is why I like them ! Unfortunately I wasn't able to visit before making my commitment for financial reasons , but I've heard a lot of great things about campus and I'm very excited for my official visit in the fall!"

 

Have you had a special coach or family member that led you to this great accomplishment? If so or both, what did they do for you to reach this?

"My number one fan watching me from above is my grandfather (Victor Morales),  he is my family member that drove me the most in baseball and until this day I drive to succeed in honor of him! Secondly, it's hard to select one special coach that has helped me reach this goal, but three coaches that I have had that pushed me to the limit and helped me reach my goal are Andy Lajoie (telling me to never give up) , Harry Melendez (installing determination and hard work ethic in me) and lastly my summer baseball coach Scott Patterson (gaining my confidence as a pitcher and getting me to be seen by scouts all over."

 

What are you looking forward to the most at West Virginia?

"I'm looking to get the best college experience I can have at WVU, and to become the very best pitcher I can be and get this team to Omaha!"

 

What things are you going to try and improve on before college?
"Before I step onto campus as a freshman at WVU , I want to improve on time management, increase my velocity, my command in my pitches, and be in the best shape I can be in"

Lastly, what was your favorite baseball moment? For example, winning a state championship,throwing a no hitter.
"Lastly, my favorite baseball moment was hitting a walk off home run freshman year at regionals for my summer baseball team. One because it was back to back home runs and it was/will be the last time I hit a ball that far! Haha"

Endy sure has a bright future with baseball and we wish nothing but the best for this talented young man.

St Sebastian's own, Pat McGowan, commits to Holy Cross

Right handed pitcher Pat McGowan of St Sebastian's announced on his twitter account that he has committed to Holy Cross for the fall of 2015.

"@McG13Patty: 2015 Holy Cross Baseball commit! A big thank you to everybody who has helped me along the way!! #CrusaderBaseball ⚾️"

The Wellesley, MA native has a pretty impressive resumé for such a young baseball player. The past two years McGowan has been a Perfect Game Pre Season All American and this year was All-League All ISL for High School baseball at St Sebastian's and was recently nominated as 17U WWBA All Tournament in early July. Pat's fastball currently sits at about 85-87MPH and he has topped out at 88MPH. Pat currently plays his summer ball for the 17U Northeast Baseball Rays, who are one of New England's top teams. We caught up with Pat and asked him some questions. 

Why did you choose Holy Cross? Did anything stick out to you when you visited, How did you like the coaching staff etc.?
"I chose Holy Cross because of many things. Coach DiCenzo and Coach Rawkowski who are two guys that are going to get the best out of me. I love how Coach D pushes his players but he also supports them very well. Also, the amount of good players on their team will translate into a strong future for them, and I want to be apart of that team."

Have you had a special coach or family member that led you to this great accomplishment? If so or both, what did they do for you to reach this?
"My head coach at my high school, Mike Schell, has been a mentor for the past couple of years. He's a former Holy Cross baseball player that knew Holy Cross would be the best spot for me academically and athletically. He pushed me in the classroom and on the field, but the best part is that he would always ask me how I'm doing and his door is always open for me to go in and just chat. Also, my parents have given me the utmost support and preparation in order for me to get to where am today. My dad has always been there to hit me ground balls and throw me BP whenever I ask for it."
What are you looking forward to the most at Holy Cross?
"I look forward to being apart of a great team. They had a lot of freshman last year that will be juniors when I get there and they will be a force in the Patriot League and I want to be someone who makes a big impact on that team"

What things are you going to try and improve before college?
"One thing I'm going to work on before I go to Holy Cross is refining my mechanics in order to boost my velocity and bolstering my change up as a third pitch in my repertoire."

Lastly, what was your favorite baseball moment? For example, winning a state championship or throwing a no hitter etc.
"I threw a perfect game in little league when I was 12 and it was against the leagues best team. It was a great moment for me because my defense stood tall and made some great plays behind me."