It is still way too early to make definitive proclamations because anything can happen prior to Opening Day, but here is a breakdown of the pitching staffs among the NCAA-affiliated programs here on Long Island. This list is not simply based on who throws the hardest and who has the most Div-I caliber pitchers, but which group has the best chance of success in their conference.
1. LIU Post
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDUdt5uR9qc]
Projected Rotation:
1. Jake DeCarli
2. Dan Jagiello
3. Chris Anderson
4. Joey Arena/James Varela
Analysis: This is a dynamic rotation. They have the two dominant and experienced aces at the top that will go deep into most games, eliminating the need for bullpen depth. They could really cause problems for the ECC hitters and make some noise if they made it to the postseason. DeCarli is not a strikeout pitcher but is incredibly hard to square up because of his movement and he gets quick outs. Jagiello is a traditional power pitcher, he struck out 61 over 57.2 IP last season. The only issue was that he hit eight batters and threw five wild pitches, but with his heater, he won’t be giving up too many hits. Anderson is a redshirt junior from West Islip. After a strong freshman year in 2013, where he threw 52 IP and compiled a 3.12 ERA he struggled in 2014 before suffering an injury in 2015. The early reports are that he’s ready to establish himself in the rotation. Joey Arena was lights out for them in 2014 (1.75 ERA over 61.2 IP) before suffering an injury last season. Pushing him will be Varela, who is easily talented enough but unfortunately the rotation has three capable pitchers ahead on the depth chart. Unfortunately, they had another freshman Anthony Papa that had a great chance to break camp in the rotation but he suffered an injury and had Tommy John Surgery in November. Nevertheless, this staff can dominate.
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