Good look here at Matt Cruz (‘24, NY) snatching a few 87s early in outing. 82-85 mph range w/ FB that shows some riding life (2200-2300 RPM), strong feel for SL w/ horz & vert tilt, landing in zone often (2100-2300 RPM). Comes from extended 3/4 slot. #16uMASelect @PG_Uncommitted pic.twitter.com/f4cMZgEwmr
— PG Mid Atlantic (NY, NJ, PA, MD) (@PGMidAtlantic) July 17, 2022
Typically players that get called up to varsity as a sophomore in the Catholic League struggle to find their footing at first. After all, it is the most competitive league on the island and the bulk of the players tend to be seniors. That age difference can make all the difference in many cases.
Most players are not like Matt Cruz, though, he came up to varsity as a sophomore and all he did was lead the CHSAA in AVG (.500), he was second in hits (26), fourth in RBIs (15), seventh in stolen bases (12), sixth in SLG (.577) and he also struck out 20 over 14 innings on the bump.
He continued his dominance this summer while playing for Team Francisco Notorious 9 Select.
Following the season, Cruz announced his verbal commitment to Penn State where he has a chance to be the rare two-way Division-I player. His metrics really jump off the page – he’s a 6.6 runner that’s sitting in the upper 80s and his junior season has yet to begin.
He’ll be a big piece of Joe Fusco’s St. Dominic team this upcoming season as they look to capture their first CHSAA Championship since 2009.
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
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Was baseball always your No. 1 sport?
Baseball was always my number one sport since I was a little kid.
Can you explain your experience with the college recruiting process and why you chose Penn State?
My college recruiting process took a decently long time because I wanted to make sure I picked the right home for me and I wanted to make sure it was a good fit for me. Coach Fusco, Coach Dylan and my family all helped me make my decision on my commitment to Penn State.
You had an outstanding season on varsity as a sophomore last year, how long did it take for you to feel comfortable and feel like you belong?
It didn’t take long at all for me to start feeling comfortable on varsity. I bought into everything the coaches were saying and I just went out there every day being myself and playing my game.
Why did you choose to attend St. Dominic?
I chose St. Dominic’s HS because I loved the environment when I went to go visit the school. I also loved the college feel as far as walking from building to building throughout the day.
Favorite players in Major League Baseball?
My favorite Major League Baseball player is Juan Soto.
Best experience on a baseball field?
My best experience on a baseball field was this summer when we beat the number two ranked team in the nation – Top Tier Roos
Favorite musical artist?
My favorite musical artist is Drake.
Favorite meal?
My favorite meal is Chicken Parmigiana with penne
Favorite app on your phone?
My favorite app on my phone is Instagram
Favorite vacation spot?
My favorite vacation spot is Cancun, Mexico
Favorite TV Show?
My favorite TV show is Friends
