Adelphi has adjusted extremely well to the recruiting process during this pandemic. In addition to fielding a strong team in 2020, they now positioned themselves well for the future by snagging several of the top 2021 players on Long Island. They crushed the pitching recruits with John Rizzo, Jordan Falco, Phil D’Aguanno, Zach Rovner, Jacob Pedersen, Kendall Kendrick and John Carver. Now they have added to their position-player group with Kellenberg C C.J. Picone.
Our followers may know him from the performance he put on at the Power Showcase in Miami back in December 2019 when he not only finished runner-up for his age group, but also raised $5,395 for charity by doing so. C.J. is the rare teenager that possesses leadership skills of a coach, a selfless attitude and the talent to be an impact player.
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
Can you explain your experience with the college recruiting process and why you chose Adelphi?
The recruiting process was certainly a long and hard one. I was very close to going to the Air Force, but things became complicated with COVID and an eventual career change. I chose Adelphi because they have an incredible baseball program and also a very good nursing program, which is what I will be taking in college. I’m very grateful for the opportunity that Coach Scala has given me.
Who are your favorite players in Major League Baseball and why?
My favorite players in the MLB are Willson Contreras and Javy Baez because they are both arguably the top players at their positions and also play the game with great poise and swag, which is how I tend to play.
You’ve had quite the performance at the Power Showcase over the years – could you talk about your experience there and why you enjoy attending it?
Over the past five years, I’ve been blessed to be involved in the Power Showcase and and I have Bryan Domenico to thank for that. It has been an unbelievable experience and I’ve made a bunch of lifelong friends along the way. It truly was an amazing experience.
Can you discuss what playing for the LI Junior Ducks has been like over the years? Who are some teammates you have become close with?
Playing for the Junior Ducks was a fantastic experience and I wouldn’t change it for the world. I’ve made a bunch of friends who will be a part of my life for a long time to come. Ryan Thompson, Connor Ruland and John Rizzo are some of the guys. I will be fortunate enough to play with Rizzo again this upcoming fall and for the next four years.
Why did you choose to attend Kellenberg? How has your experience been?
I chose Kellenberg because I fell in love with it when I attended the open house. Everything about it caught my attention and the baseball program is very elite which really caught my eye.I am very grateful for my time at Kellenberg and wouldn’t change it for the world.
What do you plan on working on this off-season?
I plan on getting stronger, bigger and faster this off-season. I also plan on working on my baseball skills as much as I can. Really, improving my overall play and performance is the main goal.
What are your goals for 2021?
My goals for 2021 are to graduate at the top of my class and work extra hard to achieve my goals for my freshman year at Adelphi.
Can you talk about the dynamic with your family and the impact they have had on your career?
I really have my parents and my siblings to thank for my career and success. They have supported me from the start. My parents brought me to all my games, to all my practices, hitting and catching lessons, and even snuck in a few Gatorades during the game. They are both my heroes and I thank them for everything they’ve done.
Favorite app on your phone?
My favorite app is Snapchat.
Best baseball trip you’ve been on?
The best trip I went on for baseball was when I was 11 and went to Myrtle Bech and all the best players on Long Island played on that team. It was such a fun trip but we came in 2nd place.
Favorite type of food?
My favorite food is sushi.
Favorite musical artist?
My favorite artist is 50 cent.
Any superstitions?
I use the same Pro Hitter every time I hit.
Favorite holiday?
My favorite holiday is Christmas.
