Playing in a small-school district such as Babylon has its inherent challenges in regards to getting noticed. In such cases, a player must often generate buzz from summer ball. That has been the case with Cristino Tufano. The 13-year-old is coming off a monster season with the Camelot Knights. His season, along with the fact that the school has a smaller enrollment gives him an opportunity to move up to varsity as an eighth-grader this season.
This past season, he batted .472 with 17 home runs and 51 RBI. He also performed on the mound, with his high-octane fastball. He fired a no-hitter during the Columbus Day tournament as well as throwing a shutout in Cooperstown against California.
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
What has been your most exciting thing in your baseball career?
The most exciting thing in my baseball career has been getting to play on JV as a 7th grader. It was a great experience. I adjusted well and quickly felt comfortable with my teammates and getting to play against other opponents. My first hit on JV was just honestly an insane accomplishment in my life and most likely one of the most exciting moments in my career.
Have you thought about playing on varsity as an eighth grader?
Are you confident in your ability to do so? Yes I have thought about this topic a lot and it is very exciting to me. It’s going to be an amazing time getting to play up the middle wit my older brother, Antonio. It is a great experience for me learn. I will work hard and get ready to take my place at short when my older brother graduates this year. This opportunity is going to be very fun and a great learning experience for my baseball career. I am also thankful to varsity coach Manzella for allowing me to showcase my skills and prove I am ready.
How would you describe your time playing with the Camelot Knights?
My time with the Camelot knights has been very good ever since I came to the organization. I’ve been provided with an extreme amount of chances from my coaches (Joe Palumbo, Dom Delvecchio and Steve Kurz ). They gave me exposure to great competition and great coaching. I like to be pushed hard and they can do it. This is most definitely the right place for me to expand and grow as a player. On the mound it’s important to have a catcher I’m comfortable with and that is what I have in JJ Palumbo (my catcher). I really worked great with him through the fall season and I know no matter what pitch I’m going to throw, he will be ready for it
What are your goals for 2019? What do you need to work on in the offseason?
My goals in 2019 are getting ready for the season on varsity and being prepared to play against juniors and seniors. It’s going to be hard to adjust, but as the player I am, I think I can handle it. Last year the Varsity team had a very tough loss in the Suffolk County Championship against Center Moriches, but this year we will be looking to take the title home.
Who are your favorite players in the MLB and why?
Fransico Lindor because he is also a shortstop and plays the game of baseball much like I do. He’s a very quick and a skilled athlete. He is a contact hitter like me but can also hit for power, also like me. He has very good range of the field as do I and both have a very strong arm.
Who are the biggest influences in your life?
The biggest influence is my brother Antonio easily because I follow after him. He is an All-County multi-sport athlete (Football, Track, Baseball). He is a two time Pre -Season Under Armour All-American and committed to play baseball in college. He plays the roll of shortstop on the varsity level and I followed along last year playing JV shortstop in 7th grade. I hope the achieve the same in the years to come.
