Two times in three years, Manhasset reached the semifinals in Class A. However, in 2017 they experienced difficulties as they finished 4-15.
As seen in the past, Manhasset knows how to rebound after a tough year. If all goes right and everyone produces, they can easily make a postseason run in Conference A2.
“If we are going to make a playoff run, our pitching is going to carry us,” Head Coach Mark Giardino stated. “We have a very strong and deep staff. If we stay healthy our staff can be dynamic,” he added.
The Indians starting rotation consists of returning players that have previous varsity experience. They will be led by Hamilton-commit Jay Schlaefer, who will be the ace. He will be backed up by Will Allen and Cole Zaffiro on the mound.
Aside from their returning pitchers, they have incoming players that will look to make an impact at the varsity level. These players include Patrick Jarvis, Colin Hanlon, Will Simoldoni and Michael McGoey.
Although Manhasset has a talented pitching staff, scoring runs will be the most significant factor for them this season. In 2018, they started the season off hot with their bats, but cooled down towards the end of the year.
If they wish to repeat their success in 2015 and 2017, they must stay consistent throughout the entire year. Offensively, they will be led by Joseph Brunetti, Joe LoCurto and Will Allen.
Defensive uncertainty could hinder the Indians. By working hard this off season, Manhasset is confident they can fill these holes and be contenders in a conference that doesn’t have any powerhouses on paper.
Conference A2 consists of Garden City, New Hyde Park, Jericho, Carey and Bellmore JFK. In a playoff format where three of the top teams in the conference make the playoffs, they have their vision set on the postseason.
Coach Giardino has led a #13 seed and a #17 seed to the semifinals in the past four years. Even if Manhasset isn’t in contention for a conference title in the beginning of May, they are dangerous no matter what the month is. Don’t sleep on the Indians this year.
