by Tony Genualdo
After making the playoffs in 2018, Sachem North last season looked to make another playoff run. Unfortunately, they came one game short of getting back. A few injuries to the team seemed to have been the coup de grâce due to not having enough depth on the roster.
The parity in League 2 was pretty remarkable as six of the seven teams remained in playoff contention until the last game of the season. Ultimately, Sachem North was unable to seal the deal and clinch a berth as they did in 2018.
But this year is a new year, and Coach Tom Gambino is excited to see who will step up for the team.
“It will be a fun competition to see who takes jobs,” Gambino said. “Many young guys will have an opportunity to play a significant role for us.”
Out of the three starting pitchers last year, only one returns to the team: Matt Ingraffia. But there are some pitchers who had some experience last year in Tyler Kohn (SUNY Plattsburgh-commit) and Eric Maldonado (City College of New York-commit) who are also returning.
For position players, junior Steven Kienzle and senior Fred Forgione (SUNY Maritime-commit) will be the most experienced players on the team. Gambino says that the other spots are “pretty much up for grabs.”
League 2 is always competitive. Defending champs Connetquot and Commack are sure to be tough opponents. Gambino and his team are ready to compete and make it back to the playoffs.
“There is always a lot of talent in our league and we always look forward to the challenge,” said Gambino.
They will open up on March 30 against Bay Shore in the first of a three-game set. They wrap up the season with a three-game series against Connetquot with the final game slated for May 14.
