(This is the eighth 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, Tyler Scarry, Kenny Meliere and Jaiden Zoller. Make sure to check out Eye Q Investigations by clicking here)
Power-throwing lefties. That will never go out of style across amateur baseball. Every year there’s another that takes the next step and becomes a dominant force and becomes a Division-I pitcher.
One name that I believe fits that mold is Northport sophomore Max Donacea. I first watched him at our Axcess World Series back in September at St. Dominic HS. He was brilliant in his outing against players that were 1 or 2 years old than him.
His fastball was up to 86 MPH with an average spin rate of 2200-2300, per Rapsodo. He was named MVPitcher at the 16u PG New England Elite Championship. Overall, he pitched 26.2 innings with 47 strikeouts, a 2.40 ERA and 1.09 WHIP.
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I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
Was baseball always your No. 1 sport?
Yes, ever since I started Little League, baseball has been my number one sport.
Who are some people that have had a positive influence on your career?
A lot of people have had a positive impact on my career, like my coaches who have taught me the game and how it’s meant to be played, teammates who have kept me competitive, trainers who help me further develop my skills, and family who supports me 100%. Most particularly, I’d have to say my dad has had the most significant impact on me, as he has helped me learn many valuable lessons that help me compete every time I go out on the mound.
Who are your favorite players in Major League Baseball?
My favorite player in the Major Leagues is Max Scherzer because he is a great pitcher who has a great mentality and is very entertaining to watch.
What has been your most thrilling moment on a baseball field?
My most thrilling moment on the baseball field would have to be this past summer season when I pitched against Wow Factor Texas East, where I struck out 12 batters, allowing two hits and one walk and having a 0.47 WHIP that game, and I ended up winning the MVPitcher Award for that tournament as well.
What are your goals for this offseason?
My goal this offseason is to overall get bigger and stronger, increase my flexibility and mobility, and further develop my offspeed and breaking pitch.
Do you work with any private instructors?
Yes, I pitch with Neal Heaton during the offseason.
Favorite meal?
My favorite meal is bacon, egg and cheese on a roll.
Favorite app on your phone?
My favorite app on my phone is Instagram.
Favorite TV show?
My favorite TV show is Breaking Bad.
Favorite musical artist?
My favorite musical artist is Drak.
Favorite vacation spot?
l love to snowboard, and my favorite spot is Park City, Utah.
Dream Car?
My dream car is a Mclaren Senna.
