by Vinny Messana, Editor
With the rapid ascension of showcases and travel organizations, we are now able to identify the top players at a much younger age.
No longer do we have to hear through the grapevines about a slugger from the other side of town and be forced to wait until spring time to see him in action.
Thanks to national databases like Perfect Game, we know that Johnny Castagnozzi, the 14-year-old freshman from Massapequa, is ranked No. 1 in the state for the 2020 graduating class.
We also know that he has excellent measurables. His 77 MPH throw across the infield was well above the 69 MPH average for players his age. At the plate, he recorded an 86 MPH exit velocity which is 5 MPH above the average 14-year-old.
Additionally, we know that the 6’0″ shortstop has tremendous speed, as evidence by his 3.89 30-yard dash time. The average time being 4.24, so he is in the 95 percentile.
The Massapequa native is a name to watch in the coming years. For a program that has churned out Div-I players at an astonishing rate, it is no surprise there is another one on the rise.
I had a chance to speak with the young star shortstop and here’s what he had to say…
Did you play other sports growing up, or was baseball always your only sport?
When I was younger I played Soccer, and I still play Basketball and Football, but baseball has always been my top priority.
Do you come from an athletic family?
My dad played Baseball, Basketball, and Soccer in high school and my sister started in Dance when she was 5 and she stayed with it all the way through her sophomore year of college so I’d say that we definitely love the competition.
Who are some players you emulate yourself after?
I like David Wright for his talent, work ethic, and his humility. He’s my role model.
Who are your biggest inspirations in life?
My Grandpa has always told me about how important hard work is and how it can really pay off. He was a NYC Police Detective and always had multiple jobs and he inspires me to be the best that I can be.
What does your offseason regime consist of?
I take about 150 swings a day off the tee, I go to hitting lessons once a week, and I work out 4 times a week. This year, I’m also doing an arm conditioning program
What has been the biggest thrill of your career?
Being selected for the Perfect Game Select event this year in Fort Myers and playing with the top players in my age group was a huge thrill but it made me feel humble too because of the great talent that all of the other players have. Also as part of that, giving back to those in need by raising money for the Golisano’s Children’s Hospital was really special. All of our family and friends gave freely to support the cause and it really made me proud.
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Craig Gersbeck
Johnny is a humble hardworking good kid who deserves great success!!!He comes from a great family not inly raising a good athlete but a good role model!!