by David Moskowitz
Sayville looks to improve upon their 2015 record of 11-9 and continue their playoff streak– they’ve qualified for a postseason berth in 12 consecutive seasons.
This will mark the 14th season as head coach for Ryan Cox. In addition to the steady leadership from Cox, Sayville has added Pete Blumenauer to its coaching staff. Pete’s coaching experience includes serving as the head coach at Islip (won State championship in 2007) Suffolk Community pitching coach, Adelphi assistant coach, the Hamptons League, and more. His presence will certainly benefit the team.
Key returnees include: senior LHP Sal Zafonte –’15 League VI Pitcher of the Year (4-1 record, 1.39 era 40.2 IP, 47 Ks, one no-hitter), junior center fielder Kevin Newell (All-County.429 20 RBI, 8 doubles) junior P/OF Jake Sheridan, senior catcher Anthony Sirianni, senior shortstop and pitcher Richie Ward (.379 15 RBI 2 triples 2 saves), and junior pitcher Anthony Martino.
Key newcomers include junior outfielder and pitcher Pierce May and junior infielder Ryan Rafferty.
They will rely heavily on their pitching staff. Sal Zafonte will anchor the rotation. He is committed to SUNY Cortland. The rest of the innings to come from a combination of Martino, Sheridan and Brian Burgos.
Despite the fact the pitching is expected to carry this year’s team, the team is certainly not going to be lacking in offense and has great positional flexibility.
“Kevin Newell will bat No. 1 or No. 3 this year. As of the preseason, Jake Sheridan will play first base or outfield when he is not pitching along with Pierce May and Tyler Villez. Senior Anthony Sirianni will be behind the plate with senior Richie Ward anchoring the shortstop spot and close games when needed. Brian Burgos will be counted on at 3B and on the mound.”
The team looks forward to attempting to continue the playoff streak and make a deep run in the postseason.
