Syosset was one of the many team on Long Island that were really impacted by the cancellation of the high school season. They had 12 seniors and a number of younger players that were quality players and there was plenty of reason for optimism around the program.
“We were really excited last year – it was a really good group,” said Head Coach Tom Morritt who took over the program in 2019. That year’s team lost in the playoffs to the eventual Long Island Champion Massapequa Chiefs. They graduated All-County RHP Cameron Mayer from that team who is now a starting pitcher at Tufts.
Of the 12 seniors in 2020, three went on to play college ball including PJ Daniels and David & Peter Saferstein.
In regards to those seniors, “It was really tough to see their season go,” said Morritt.
In 2021, they still have a number of talented players on the roster. Leading the way is Adelphi-commit Jacob Lee. The hard-throwing RHP got some time on varsity as a freshman and will likely anchor the rotation.
Jacob Lee (Syosset 2022) up to 85. Also commands his splitter well pic.twitter.com/qJokSbgXf7
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) November 8, 2020
“He came up big as a freshman. He was never overwhelmed by the moment,” said Morritt. He is the only returning player with varsity experience.
They also have senior Ithaca-commit OF/RHP Ryan Banks and senior catcher Nick Anderson who will likely start behind the dish.
They have some talented juniors including Alex Larson, Jackson Bullaro and Randy Ventura.
Morritt said Larson “will be a key starter for us, his velocity has gone up a lot he’s in the low 80s now,” he said. In regards to Ventura he said, “love him defensively. He has great speed. He’s very strong, he’s super athletic and has great hands. Has good power for his size,” he added.
The district put together a return-to-play plan back in September and by October the team was able to practice outside on their new turf. He stated they worked primarily on strength and conditioning.
“We were able to put together a program. It was a good way for the kids to get acclimated. I’m a big believer in getting the kids bigger, stronger and faster. I’m confident it will work out now and in the long run.”
They will open up with a two-game series against Oceanside beginning on May 4 at home.
