by Tony Genualdo
Last season was a successful one for Hills West, finishing with an 11-4 league record, and 13-6-1 overall They were co-league champions with Hauppauge. Two All-County players graduated after last season. Silver Slugger winner Mike Draskin (New York Tech) and Aidan Tornquist (Fordham). Coach Tom Migliozzi had one major takeaway from last season.
“A takeaway from last year was the proof that leadership is extremely important,” Migliozzi said. “Our captain, Doug Lattuca, did a great job leading this team.”
The preparation for the 2020 season started in November for Hills West. Pitchers and catchers began reporting to the team once a week. They, along with the rest of the team, met at local batting cages for hitting drills. But pitching is always the major concern when it comes to improving the team.
There are some seniors returning to the team with a lot of experience. Mount Saint Vincent-commit John Jimenez started in center field when he was a junior last season. He has a strong arm and has the potential to be a big RBI guy at the plate. Jared Kubel has been working hard this offseason to regain his dominance on the mound. He is joined by Nick Alessio, a capable pitcher looking to battle this season. Gianmarco Tocco was named the starting shortstop as a junior and was a solid defender who came up with some big hits.
Other seniors returning to the team are Kelly Burke, Justin Diaz, Noah Costa, Joe LeGuernic, Chris Macaluso, Dante Sabatino, and Daniaal Salian.
Juniors Jordan Goldstein and Mike Freda also return to the team. Both have received All-League honors not only as sophomores, but also as freshman.
“They are juniors with senior experience,” Migliozzi said. “I expect them to lead alongside the seniors.”
The varsity team is not against the idea of calling up players on the JV team. Two freshman, Justin LeGuernic and Ryan Moskopf, have been making big strides and are both on the radar for the varsity team if they need assistance. Both have incredible potential.
The league is a difficult one this year. If Hills West hopes to make another playoff run, the pitching staff will need to step up.
“I feel our defense and offensive lineup will compete,” said Migliozzi. “Pitching will be the challenging part for Hills West this year.” Migliozzi has a knack for maximizing the talent on roster – the only way to compile over 400 wins. He led them to the New York State Championship in 2003.
They will open the season on March 30 at Rocky Point in the first of a three-game set. They conclude the regular season on May 14 at Islip.
