Almost three years to do the day, we did a feature story on a young player in the Wantagh district who put himself on the map by crushing 18 home runs in Cooperstown – and 73 home runs over the course of the season overall.
It was met with skepticism by some in the Long Island baseball community, who questioned the accuracy of the information. Those same people are left with nothing to complain about after watching the performance of that same young player since that time.
Aidan Bardi, now entering his junior year at Wantagh HS, recently announced his verbal commitment to the University of Maine. Bardi has been a no-brainer Division-I player in my eyes since I did that story on him and watched his aggressive swing and flawless mechanics. Bardi was one of the few freshman in Keith Sachs’ 30-year tenure to get called up to varsity – but he not only got called up, he also started at catcher, batted .400 and went All-County and All-Axcess.
Aidan Bardi (Wantagh 2024) put himself on the map with 18 home runs in a single week in Cooperstown. Last year he was the only freshman to be named All-County. Div-I prospect pic.twitter.com/tmPVk4YPyl
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) January 17, 2022
While 2022 was an uncharacteristic down year for the Warriors, Bardi continued his strong play. He improved across the board – batting .508 with a .565 OBP, 2 HR, 8 stolen bases, 19 runs scored and a .694 SLG. He went All-County for a second straight year and can now say he’s a Division-I commit along with his fellow infield teammate, Tim Hennig.
I had a chance to speak with Aidan, who has been playing for Knights Nation MXE Academy this summer, and here’s what he had to say…
Can you explain your experience with the college recruiting process and why you chose Maine?
My recruiting process was difficult. Although I had so many people guiding me, at some points it was hard for me to stand out because of my size. One of the biggest reasons I chose Maine is because of the coaching. I also loved the campus life and size.
Who are some people that have had a positive influence on your career and why?
The people that have had a positive influence on my career are my mother and father, friends and coaches – Joey Giac and Keith Sachs. More specifically, Brad Jackson has impact my career more than any other coach I’ve ever had. I’ve worked with him since I was 9 and he is the reason for all of this.
What did you do in the offseason to improve? Do you work with any private instructors?
During the offseason, I lift daily and hit weekly. I also play football during the fall. I trained with Brad Jackson, Dan Luisi and Chris Manno. These people have brought my skill to the next level.
Can you explain your time with Knights Nation and who are some of your closest friends with the team?
My time with Knights Nation has been extremely fun and memorable. A few of my closest friends on the team were Matt Kalfas, TK Charlwood, PJ Kakalos and Sean DiPaola.
Was it intimidating being on varsity as a freshman? Who were some seniors that helped you feel more comfortable?
At first it was a little intimidating because getting pulled up as a freshman at Wantagh is rare. I felt I had to show everybody that I was good enough. As soon as the season started, the nervousness went away and it was the most fun I’ve had playing baseball. A few seniors that made me feel comfortable were Sean Conigliaro, Adam Kissinger, Frank Peretti and Shaun Joyce.
What are your goals for 2023?
My goals for 2023 are to be All-County or better, Conference MVP and to win the Diamond Award. I’d also like to be All-Axcess again.
Favorite type of food?
Pasta
Favorite musical artist?
Tyler the Creator
Favorite app on your phone?
Snapchat
Favorite players in Major League Baseball?
Bo Bichette and Bryce Harper
Most thrilling moment on a baseball field?
Hitting the 18th HR at Cooperstown
Dream Car?
Audi R8
Favorite vacation spot?
Aruba
