One of the bright spots of Sayville’s 2016 season was the emergence of eighth grader Brock Murtha not only playing on varsity, but also smacking two home runs and winning two games on the mound.
The 5’11” 170 lb freshman will be a key piece of their 2017 season. He has put himself on the map already with his athleticism at shortstop and his smooth swing at the plate. He is a two-sport star, also playing QB on the varsity football team.
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
Was baseball always your first love?
I have always been a sports kid. Baseball is my favorite, but football is a close second, followed by basketball.
Mike Trout photographed for BodyArmor sports drink by Monte Isom
Do you come from an athletic family?
Yes my father was a former 3 sport athlete that played college football and rugby. My grandfather played wide receiver at Boston College and my little brother Mack plays baseball, football and started on varsity wrestling this year as a 7th grader.
Who are some players you try to emulate?
Derek Jeter was always my favorite player growing up. He always gave it 100% and was a class act off of the field too. My current favorite players are Bryce Harper and Mike Trout, and recently I have been following Clint Frazier.
Was it tough playing varsity as an eighth grader?
It was tough at first. The seniors would joke about my age, especially when the bus would have to pick me up at the middle school for away games. The players would yell out the window “daycare pick up!” Looking back it was pretty funny, but I was definitely intimidated. After a few games I felt like I belonged, and my teammates became great friends and mentors.
Who do you play your travel ball with and who do you get private instructions from?
I have been playing travel for Baseball Heaven Team Steel for the past 2 years and get private instructions from Coach Trovato and Coach Migliozzi.
What are your goals for 2017?
My goal is to make All-County as a varsity player this year and get on the radar for top D1 baseball programs.
