(Editor’s Note: This is the 10th profile of our Up Next Series which highlights the top middle school and JV kids on Long Island. We are approaching the end of the series. Once January 1 arrives, we will be full swing in terms of high school and college baseball season.)
Plate coverage is a lot art.
With the proliferation of the “three-true outcomes” (home run, strikeout, walk), players are foregoing the approach they learned in Little League in favor of what they see on the MLB Network. Besides the fact that very few youth players possess the type of power to hit the ball over the fence, it also is not conducive to a team-mentality.
When a young player embraces the old-school approach of small-ball, it is a breath of fresh air. 14-year-old Nick Farnacci is an interesting player in that he is a sweet-swinging player that has incredible plate discipline, bat-to-ball skills and success at the dish. He is in Hills East district and could be an impact player for them in the near future.
As the leadoff hitter and shortstop for Batting 1.000, he played 50 games, compiled an OPS of 1.065 and struck out only 12 times over 165 at bats.
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
How would you evaluate your 2018 season?
I think I had a good season, but I want to be better. I know I can be.
What are some things you want to focus on in the off-season?
My main focus of the off-season is to get bigger and stronger. People think I’m lacking because I’m smaller, but they don’t know me. I feel my speed and agility are things that help me succeed. I also am working on my arm strength for the longer throws across the diamond from the shortstop position.
What are your goals for 2019?
My goals for the 2019 season are to improve offensively and also in the field. I can be better defensively. I want to help my team win.
Who are some players in Major League Baseball that you enjoy watching and why?
Some of my favorite players to watch in the MLB are Javier Baez and Jose Altuve. I model my game after them. Watching Jose Altuve thrive in the league at such a small size motives me.
Who are some individuals that have had an impact on your life?
Individuals who have impacted my life include my older brother and my current coach. I’m always competing to be better than my brother, it’s pretty tough since he’s older and bigger, but I always give it a shot. Coach Joey Tracy at B1.000 has also impacted me. I’ve played for a lot of coached growing up, but this past year he was always by my side in a very positive and encouraging way.
What career would you like to pursue if professional baseball doesn’t present itself?
I’ve been talking with my parents about law and criminal justice. Being a detective interests me.
Do you have any superstitions on the field?
The only real superstition I have is that I listen to the same playlist of songs before each game. These songs just get me locked in for game time.
Who are your favorite musical artists?
My favorite musical artists are Travis Scott, Lil Baby and Gunna.
