Manhasset head coach Mark Giardino is confident heading into the 2020 campaign, in large part because of the work ethic of his team.
“Our goal is to get better every day,” he said. “This group is special. When they were on JV they were excellent. Every year they’ve shown more maturity. If we can get better each day – and I think we can – that should put us in contention for a championship. Success is a by-product of hard work and this group is extremely hard working,” he added.
They finished 2019 with a record of 14-9, and lost in the quarterfinals to the eventual Class A Champions, Clarke Rams.
The group did graduate ace Jay Schlaefer – now the No. 2 pitcher at Hamilton College, Joe LoCurto, Will Allen and Joe Brunetti.
Fortunately, the team returns a strong core of players that were able to gain valuable experience during last year’s postseason appearance.
Giardino noted that the strength of the team is their pitching. They will be led by UPENN-commit Cole Zaffiro, who has been a three-year varsity player. Last season, he fired a two-hitter against Bellmore and compiled a 13-strikeout game against New Hyde Park.
“He’s in the mid 80s with his fastball, he has a good change up and when he’s on, he’s pinpoint with his command,” he added.
Joining him in the rotation is sophomore Jake Moss. Giardino described him as a pitcher that throws in the “low 80s, with great control and four quality pitches.” During his first varsity start as a freshman, he went 6.2 innings, throwing just 70 pitches against Garden City. In his following outing, he fired a complete game against Carey. “He is mature for his age, he’s the real deal” said Giardino.
Vying for the third spot in the rotation will be a pair of juniors, Patrick Jarvis and Teddy Mouhlas.
Coach Giardino is excited about the team’s defense as well, citing their strength up the middle as reason for optimism. Behind the dish is sophomore Mike Brunetti who “performed very solid during his freshman campaign,” according to Giardino. He went on to add that, “he’s an awesome kid that loves to block the baseball, get dirty and do things that most people do not.”
At shortstop, senior Colin Hanlon will be tasked with anchoring the infield defense. Giardino called him “the leader of the team” and an “excellent defender.”
Additionally, senior CF Mike McGoey is a critical piece of the team. Giardino stated that “there will not be a better defensive CF in Nassau County – I can guarantee that.”
They will be opening up their season with three non-league games Wantagh, St. Dominic and Clarke before their conference opener on March 30 against Herricks.
