This is the fifth installment of the popular series “Up Next” Powered by the Yard Sports Academy in which we highlight the top underclassmen on Long Island. Previously, we featured Centereach OF Logan Norman, Garden City LHP Gabe Beschloss , Connetquot INF Ryan Kiendle and Clarke MIF Nick Berasti. Make sure to check out the Yard Sports Academy here.
Miller Place was the favorite to capture the Suffolk Class A Championship in 2019 as they entered the playoffs as the No. 1 overall seed. They were not able to finish the job, as Sayville wound up getting hot and riding that streak to their first LIC in program history. The core of that Miller Place graduated in 2019, they had 18 seniors. Last year’s team had only five which means they are returning the bulk of their team.
One of those players was freshman SS Alex Strickland. Despite playing against players three years older, he compiled a healthy OBP of .414 OBP with eight stolen bases. They will be hoping that he can duplicate that production atop the lineup or even take a step forward. There’s also a chance he can contribute on the mound. PG has his velocity at 87, which should play well at this level.
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say..
Who are your favorite players in Major League Baseball and why?
My favorite players in Major League Baseball are Javier Baez and Jacob deGrom because they are some of the top players at their position and I like the way they play the game.
Who are some people who have had positive influences on your playing career?
My father – basically he has been since I started playing and pushes me hard to succeed. Coach Sorgie is another person who has had a big time impact on me. He has been helping me out with the college recruiting process.
How have you been enjoying your time with Team Steel? Who are some top performers on your team?
I am definitely enjoying my time with Team Steel so far. Some of our key contributors were Mikey Monaco who is one of our better hitters and Hunter Colagrande who is the top pitcher.
Do you take any private lessons?
I take hitting lessons with Pat Lennon at Pro Game Athletics.
What are your goals for the off-season?
I would like to add some weight, try to get a 6.8-6.9 60-ayrd dash and add a few MPH to my fastball.
What is your best memory on a baseball field?
My best memory was when I hit a three-run walk-off HR to advance into the semifinals at Diamond Nation.
What is your dream college to attend?
I have not decided what my dream college is yet.
What is your favorite pregame meal?
My favorite pregame meal is a bacon cheeseburger.
What is your favorite app on your phone?
My favorite app to use is Snapchat.
Where is your favorite place to get a slice of pizza?
Amici Express is my favorite place to get pizza and I like to go there after all my games.
Dream car?
My dream car is the 2021 Corvette.
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