(This is the fourth installment of the popular ‘Up Next’ Series in which we highlight the top underclassmen on Long Island. Previously we featured Miguel Sime Jr, Matt Cruz. and Luke Coats. Make sure you check out Eye Q Investigations by clicking here.)
At this point it is accurate to describe Chaminade as a baseball factory. Coming off their third straight CHSAA Championship – and winning the first NYS CHSAA Championship in history – they are one of the premiere programs in the northeast. While they did graduate 15 seniors, the well never runs dry on talent.
One of the players to keep an eye on is sophomore middle infielder Michael Gardner. He just finished up an amazing 2022 season in which he accomplished a lot and compiled some impressive numbers. Over 40 games in Perfect Game events, he batted .351 with a .480 OBP and .962 OPS. He scored 30 runs, drove in 29 runs, stole 27 bases and had just two more strikeouts (21) than walks (19), all while playing a strong defensive shortstop that already runs a sub 7.0 60-yard dash with an 85 MPH throw across the diamond.
His summer coach, Ryan Gorecki had the following to say: “He has a lot of raw talent – his upside is higher than just about anyone on the island. His speed is really something. I know people think you can teach speed – but I don’t think that his can be taught. His speed changes the game in a heartbeat. Fielding wise – he’s work in program but his actions are Major League actions and he’s got a Major League arm. Glove needs work but that’s something you can improve. He’s got power. He has a thin and wiry frame but he definitely has power. I don’t think Chaminade knows what they have in him yet. He also can come in and pitch too – he closed out a bunch of games for me. It’s no surprise we were ranked No. 37 in the country with him, Elijah Outlaw, Anthony Gerbasio and Anthony Carlo. He’s also a very coachable kid. It’s so nice to have a kid like that.”
Michael Gardner (‘25, NY) uses his wide stance to generate power as he launches this ball to the LCF gap for a double #NEWS @PG_Tourney @PGMidAtlantic pic.twitter.com/c0kAo9sHFi
— Perfect Game Youth (@PGYouthBB) July 30, 2022
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 has, without a doubt, been my number 1 sport ever since tee-ball. As a matter of fact, when I was a little boy, I used to sleep with my baseball helmet and bat in the bed with me.
Who are some people that have had a positive influence on your life?
The people that have had a positive influence on my life have been God, my parents, my coaches (Ryan Gorecki and Stu Pomeranz), family and teammates.
Do you work with any private instructors?
I work with a great team of supportive people. I work with my coach Ryan Gorecki (fielding), Nick Clarke (hitting), Joe Francisco (hitting and overall baseball knowledge), and I also attend Velo University (strength and arm conditioning).
Any family members that have played college sports?
My grandfather was on the Syracuse swim team, my dad was a competitive powerlifter during college and my cousin is playing football at the University of Delaware.
What has been the biggest thrill of your playing career?
Although it was a great thrill to receive MVP at the 15u Perfect Game Fall Northeast World Series, the real highlight was winning the 14u Perfect Game Northeast World Series this past summer. My team played 4 consecutive games on the hottest day of the summer to win the championship as the last seed. My teammates and I all came together as brothers. In addition, attending the Fall Northeast Showcase end of my freshman year and seeing all my metrics increase was a great experience which earned me an 8.5 PG grade and ranking. I was extremely excited this summer when I realized that my hard work paid off and it helped me stay focused to my goals and dreams. After coming off a shaky fall season the previous year, it was great to see my athletic growth. When I saw my end of 2022 stats come out, I felt a sense of accomplishment and confidence. However, I know I still have a long road ahead of me but the one thing I know is that I won’t give up.
Why did you choose to attend Chaminade?
I chose to attend Chaminade because I fell in love with the campus and thought it was a great fit for me academically and athletically. The structure the school has provided and the faith it has instilled in me has made me a better man.
Favorite meal?
My favorite meal is steak and mashed potatoes.
Favorite app on your phone?
My favorite app on my phone is Instagram.
Favorite vacation spot?
My favorite vacation spot is Portugal because I get a chance to see my family and friends who live there.
Best baseball trip you’ve been on?
The best baseball trip I went on was to LakePoint when I played in the PBR National Championship this summer. Also playing in the Perfect Game 13u World Series was pretty amazing. These trips were great because they gave me the opportunity to play baseball against great competitors and allowed me to shine and grow.
Favorite musical artist?
My favorite musical artists are Morgan Wallen and A Boogie Wit a Hoodie.
Dream car?
My dream car is the white Rolls Royce Cullinan with a tan leather interior.
