(This is the sixth installment of our weekly “Up Next Series Powered by Eye Q Investigations” in which we highlight the best underclassmen from across Long Island. Previously, we featured Miguel Sime Jr, Matt Cruz, Luke Coats, Michael Gardner and Tyler Scarry. Make sure to check out Eye Q Investigations by clicking here).
Next Level Baseball has been one of the most consistent travel organizations in the region over the past decade. This season was no exception. A big reason for their success is the presence of the talented players in the CHSAA. Clearly the most talented league on Long Island, the Catholic League is home to several high-end Division-I and II players each season – many of them play their summer ball for the Next Level.
One of those players is Chaminade’s sophomore Kenny Meliere. He was on the mound when the JV team won the Championship over St. Anthony’s. Later on in the year, he fired a no-hitter in the Perfect Game New England World Series. Over the course of the season, he compiled a 2.10 ERA with 31 Ks over 23 innings in Perfect Game tournaments. At the plate, he was just as effective – posting a .429 AVG with a .512 OBP across 35 at bats.
2025 Kenny Meliere of @nextlevelbb
Smokes it through the hole to open up the scoring early on#pbr24 #flamesscwb pic.twitter.com/tGd704kTPo
— PBR Ohio Scouting Coverage (@PBROhioScout) July 22, 2022
Meliere has a strong arm – his fastball has topped at 85 MPH from the mound and 89 MPH from the outfield. Chaminade has no shortage of talented players, but he should be firmly in the mix on their 2023 team that graduated 15 seniors last year.
I had a chance to speak with him and heres’ what he had to say…
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Was baseball always your No. 1 sport?
Yes, baseball has always been the sport I chose first since I was 4.
Who are some people that have had a positive influence on your career?
One of my biggest influences on my career is my dad. He has always been there for me when it comes to baseball and always helped me for what I need to do to play at the next level. Also, I would say my Next Level coaches for helping me develop since I’ve came to the program in the beginning of my freshman year.
Do you have any family members that played college ball?
My uncle was a pitcher at Molloy College.
What has been your biggest thrill on a baseball field?
My biggest thrill on the baseball field was playing for Chaminade in the Championship game against St. Anthony’s.
Best baseball trip you’ve been on?
Sophomore World Series in Fort Meyers. I went down there in September and played on a team with kids from other states filled with talent and had a great experience on the quality of baseball down south against some of the top teams in the nation.
Goals for 2023?
Hit well for school ball/travel and get up to 90 off the mound. I would also like to improve my grades.
Favorite app on your phone?
Snapchat or Instagram.
Why did you choose to attend Chaminade?
I chose Chaminade because of its high-level education, religious practice and baseball program which all suit me well.
Favorite meal?
Steak and fried rice.
Favorite TV show or movie?
Breaking Bad
Favorite vacation spot?
Bahamas – I don’t go often but when I do, it’s where I enjoy my time the most.
Dream car?
Lamborghini
Earliest memory of Major League Baseball?
My earliest memory of Major League Baseball is when Derek Jeter retired.
Michael schieck
Kids a stud
Ray Millan Sr.
Kenny has always been a standout , since Little League , as he was on same team with my grandson, I had the opportunity to coach him, and have him on our spring , summer NASSAU BASEBALL “ACADEMY” travel team. Where we stressed baseball fundamentals, and practicing correctly. He is surely a dedicated, and exciting player to watch, besides being a fine young man, off the Diamond , always a fan , stay tuned .Ray Millan Sr.