The phrases “it’s a grind” and “putting in work” often get overused. But when it comes to an athlete on Long Island that embodies what it means to be committed to improving, look no further than Clarke senior JJ Palumbo. The catcher/infielder transformed his body in just over a year – losing fat and putting on muscle – and turning himself into an impact player on Clarke’s team that played in the county finals this season – even knocking the game-winning hit in one of the games against Calhoun.
Here is the go-ahead hit by Palumbo. Clarke is 3 outs away and have ace Sean Welsh warming up pic.twitter.com/8KYITmI95B
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) May 29, 2022
This past week, Palumbo announced his commitment to SUNY Purchase. While many players get caught up in the allure of being a “D-1 commit”, Palumbo was able to slow play the process until he found a school he felt checked all the boxes. This is something that has been occurring more recently, as Long Island players have acknowledged the difficulty in finding a roster spot in the post-pandemic era and would prefer to choose a solid academic school that they can get playing at.
I had a chance to speak with JJ and here’s what he had to say…
Can you explain your experience with the college recruiting process and why you chose SUNY Purchase?
The process was definitely not what I expected. It was longer and more tedious than I thought it was going to be. At times, it was also really frustrating. Picking the right school is not an easy decision as I realized there was a lot of factors that went into it. For me, Purchase was a perfect fit. I love Coach Taraska and the opportunity he is giving me, I really loved the campus and am excited that I will be closer to home than I originally thought.
Who are some people who have had a positive impact on your career?
My parents are very supportive and guided me in the right direction. My mom always has my back and is my No. 1 fan. My sisters have always been there for me through my ups-and-downs. My dad is a big factor, and he can be really tough. But since I was a kid, he has always been by my side and constantly pushing me to work hard past my limits, which is a big reason why I am playing college baseball. I can always talk to him and get trusted advice. Brad Jackson has been my guy since I am 9 years old and he has matured me as hitter, a player and a person. Coach Dom DelVecchio has always steered me in the right direction and believed in me when I sometimes doubted myself from t-ball to now. My trainer, Cornell, has got me so much stronger, faster and mentally tougher than I could have ever imagined. He is a big factor getting me ready for the next level in college. Coach Joey Giac has transformed me into a 2-way athlete being able to catch and now play middle infield. He always believed in me during the summer season through my good and bad days. Coach Joe Proscia took me from being an average catcher and made me into a collegiate catcher. Prosc is not east, but I trust his guidance and it has always showed on the field.
Who are your favorite players in Major League Baseball?
My favorite players in Major League Baseball currently are Ronald Acuna Jr, Albert Pujols and Yadier Molina.
What has your time been like playing with Knights Nation?
My experience with the Knights Nation has been something unforgettable. Amazing memories, lifelong friendships, really competitive baseball against the best teams in so many different states. I am really tight with Nick DelVecchio, who is like a brother to me. I am also tight with Chris Critchley. When he came over from West Babylon we bonded really quick and I can trust him with a lot on-and-off the field.
What was it like playing for Clarke this season? In your short time there, what do you think it is that has allowed them to be so successful over the years?
Playing on a team like Clarke is an honor and a privilege. Coach Abruscato has always been the main reason why the program is so successful. He is also a main reason why I am the player I am today. When I transferred back to Clarke and hit a rough patch, Coach Abro never lost confidence in me as a hitter, which allowed me to excel as a player. I can’t wait to get back on the field and make another run to win the counties with my teammates and play for Coach Abruscato.
What would you like to work on this offseason? Goals for 2023?
I would like to work on getting stronger and continue to get faster in the offseason. My 2023 goals are to be an All-County player and win Catcher of the Year.
Favorite baseball trip you’ve been on?
My favorite baseball trip was Ripken in Pidgeon Forge, Tennessee. I enjoyed living in a log cabin with a couple of teammates and our families. We had a great run and got to play in the championship game, unfortunately losing to Florida. But had lots of great memories in Tennessee with my family and teammates.
Favorite app on your phone?
My favorite app on my phone is probably Apple Music, I love listening to country music.
Favorite meal?
My favorite meal is a T-bone steak with rice.
Favorite musical artist?
My favorite musical artist is Luke Combs.
Favorite vacation spot?
My favorite vacation spot is Turks and Caicos. That was our best family vacation I got to experience.
