You may remember May of 2017 in the early days of Axcess Baseball when a fresh-faced freshman smoked a game-winning three-run HR to deliver a big victory for Farmingdale over Port Washington.
Fast forward 27 months and that slugger is now entering his senior year, and is one of the well-respected all-around players on Long Island. Manetta, having been a middle-of-the-order hitter/starting catcher for the Dalers and some high-profile travel organizations, was one of the highly-sought after players entering this summer.
He announced his verbal commitment to Albany this weekend, meaning the Dalers will trot out an all-America East battery on Opening Day next year with ace Justin Rosner (Binghamton-commit) likely receiving the start.
I had a chance to speak with Manetta, and here’s what he had to say…
Can you explain our experience with the college recruiting process?
The college recruiting process is definitely very exciting, but also extremely stressful at the same time. Trying to find the right place for the next four years is never easy. When I went to Albany I felt that it was definitely the right fit for me.
Who are your biggest role models in life and why?
It definitely has to be my parents and my brother. It’s a whole team effort and I could not be where I am without them. I’m extremely grateful to have them by my side all the time. They are super supportive and helps me get better by always competing with one another.
Can you explain the rivalry between Farmingdale & Massapequa?
The rivalry between us is great. It makes the sport that much better. We always look forward to playing them every year and it’s always a great series. Knowing most of the kids on Massapequa makes it a lot of fun.
Who are your favorite players in baseball and why?
Michael Conforto and Pete Alonso. Number one because they are on the Mets, but also I love to base my swing off of Conforto’s sweet lefty swing. I love watching him play and see him swing the bat.I just think Alonso is amazing. He was not even supposed to be in the major leagues this year, but he proved everyone wrong in Spring Training and has been playing amazing from the start. It’s all about opportunity and when the time came he took it and has been doing great. I like seeing that especially coming from a Met.
Do you have any private trainers or hitting instructors?
Yes, all my life I’ve went to Joe Francisco. Great hitting instructor and great mentor. Definitely would not be where I am without him today. I have to thank the entire Titans’ organization for helping me with my catching as well. I have to thank Cam Maron also for my catching. He’s a great instructor that’s got me where I am. Before the season I worked with Chris Sipp, he helped me so much. My approach was so much better and helped me swing with some intensity. A huge thank you to him
Who are your favorite musical artists?
Eminem, Drake and Luke Bryan.
What are your goals for 2020?
Win states.
