It appeared like Day 2 of the 2017 MLB Draft would pass without a Long Islander having their name called, but Jesse Berardi (Commack ’14, St. John’s) was selected with one of the final picks in the 10th round by the Cleveland Indians. He was previously drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 2014 draft.
It was very much a surprise that he lasted as long as he did, considering there was close to 20 scouts at the final few games of the season, in which he batted .356 with a .456 OBP and .462 SLG. He was named first-team All-Big East.
Berardi is considered one of the best defensive shortstops to ever come through Long Island. He won the Carl Yastrzemski Award in 2014 following a dynamic season. He opted to attend St. John’s, where he improved his offensive game considerably and his plate discipline.
Local scouts lauded him for his approach at the plate and his ability to be selectively aggressive, where he was able to produce 15 extra-base hits.
Day 3 figures to feature many more of the top talent on Long Island to get drafted, notably Brian Morrell, Mark and Mike Donadio, Dan Jagiello, T.J. Santiago, Chris Cappas, among others.
