When it comes to evaluating pitchers, the first thing many look for is size. Farmingdale RHP Will McCarthy certainly looks the part. The senior hurler stands at an imposing 6’5 207 lbs on the mound, and with his long strong it feels like he’s right on top of the hitter.
He was one of the top 2020 pitchers available until this week, when he announced his commitment to Division-II powerhouse Southern Connecticut State University. He will pitch his senior year at Farmingdale with Justin Rosner atop the Dalers rotation, forming a formidable duo as they look to get over the hump in Nassau County Class AA.
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
First off, congratulations on your college commitment–can you explain your experience with the college recruiting process?
This summer I played on a showcase travel team, NexGen Elite, and we were involved in a lot of tournaments up and down the east coast. As the season moved forward, I met some great coaches including Matt Clingersmith, who was my team’s Head Coach at the PBR NYS Games in Binghamton. After this tournament I was approached by Coach Bethke, the pitching coach from Southern and he invited me to the SCSU prospect camp. After the prospect camp I got a call that I was a fit for their roster, and an invitation for my parents and I to visit. It was awesome to meet with Coach Shea and Coach Bethke and I immediately felt a connection with SCSU.
Who are the biggest role models in your life and why?
The biggest role models in my life are my dad and grandpa. My dad has been behind me not only in my sports, but in every step of the way and never fails to make me laugh. I learned a great deal about honesty, consideration and humility from my Grandpa. These qualities I try to perform each day.
Who are your favorite professional athletes and why?
One of my favorite athletes is Jacob deGrom because he’s a phenomenal pitcher who keeps his head up high even when the Mets can’t get him any run support. He is a warrior and never stops fighting! I am also a big fan of Randy Moss. He is a wide receiver like myself and I loved to watch his unbelievable route running and catching.
Can you explain your decision to transfer to Farmingdale from Holy Trinity?
I loved playing for Coach Luisi at Holy Trinity, and made many friends there. However, the eagerness to attend school and play sports with my lifelong friends got the best of me. I feel fortunate to have friends from both schools who I’ve gotten to hang out together.
What has been your biggest thrill on the baseball field?
As a sophomore at Holy Trinity, I played varsity baseball and pitched in one of the most exciting games I’ve ever been a part of. I threw a three-hitter through six, and in the last inning the game came down to a play at the plate and a win for us against undefeated Chaminade.
Who are your favorite musical artists?
My favorite musical artists are The Rolling Stones and Wu Tang Clan.
Do you have any private instructors?
Through out my high school baseball seasons I have trained many hours at the Performance Factory in Farmingdale. This past season I trained with pitching instructor Bobby DeMichael. My travel coach, Matt Tringali, a former college pitcher, helped me tremendously with key tips.
