When the topic of underrated players come up, there’s a million names you could go with–from those in small schools to someone returning from season-ending injury to players that get overlooked by other high-profile teammates.
One name that always comes up is Jack Reardon. The Commack senior transferred from St. Anthony’s, where he was sometimes overshadowed by Division-I teammates to a school with…other Division-I teammates. Even so, rival coaches always point out his bat speed as reason to avoid him in a big spot.
He announced his verbal commitment to New Haven last week, adding to the list of Commack players that will go on to play at great collegiate programs.
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
Can you talk us through your college recruiting process and why you chose New Haven?
My experience with the recruiting process was different and tougher than most people. In the beginning, I had high D1 schools contacting me but since I don’t have the best grades they weren’t able to go further in the process with me. I made the decision to go to New Haven because of the coaches and the facilities at the school. I felt like they were going to take care of me through out my 4 years there.
How good will Commack be this year? Who are some players that Long Island baseball fans should know about?
I think Commack is going to be underrated this year. Everyone thinks we’re not as good because of the kids we lost last year. Even though the kids we lost were very important to the team, I believe we will be just as good or even better this year. We have the hitting, defense and pitching to be a top team on Long Island. I think that Vinny Pagano is a player that fans should really know about. I would put him up with the top hitters and catchers on Long Island. People already know about him but you will be hearing about Joe Pellegrino a lot this season. I would also put him up with the top hitters on Long Island. Joe and I will be one of the top middle infields around.
Who are your biggest role models in life and why?
My biggest role model in my life is my dad. He taught me everything I know. Without him I would not be the player and more important the person I am today. He is always there when I want to workout or go to the field to take BP and get some ground balls. He is just as invested in the process as I am. My dad is always pushing me to be my best and is not afraid to tell me what I did wrong and always seems to be able to fix things.
Who is your favorite player in Major League Baseball?
My favorite baseball player in the MLB has to be Javier Baez. He plays with so much swag and confidence and that’s how I like to play. The plays he makes are insane and hit swing and bat are even better. I love watching that guy play. Another favorite is Tim Anderson. This is because he plays the same as Baez, with confidence and swag and I believe those are the most important things to play with.
Do you come from an athletic family?
My dad likes to think he’s athletic because he can throw BP but I do not come from an athletic family. I am the only one to play a sport throughout high school. My uncle was a very good athlete from what I have heard. He played the same sports as me and was always the best at those sports.
Was baseball always your number one sport?
I would not say baseball was always my number 1 sport. Throughout middle school, basketball was my favorite. I loved playing it and I played it throughout the whole year. When I got to high school I had to make a decision to pick one to focus on. I still play basketball for the school team but since I’m always traveling during the summer for baseball I would not be able to play basketball over the summer. Since I started playing baseball so much I really fell in love with it. Now it is 100% my number 1 sport.
Do you work with any private instructors?
I do not have any private instructors. I never have before. It’s always just been me and my dad practicing and grinding to become the player I am today.
Favorite app on your phone?
My favorite app on my phone is Snapchat because I get to talk to all my friends.
Favorite musical artist?
My favorite musical artist is A boogie because I love what he raps about and that hypes me up before every game.
