(This is the ninth 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, Jaiden Zoller and Max Donacea Make sure to check out Eye Q Investigations by clicking here)
Keegan McElligot (St. John the Baptist 2026) pic.twitter.com/gMh5BIlvc1
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) December 20, 2022
Defense up the middle is a very important aspect to building a winning ballclub. In the case of the 2026 Titans Quattrini, they have one of the best in the class with SS Keegan McElligot. The silky smooth defender showed a penchant for making incredible plays. It doesn’t hurt that he was also outstanding at the plate. He batted .455 with a .631 OBP and showed some impressive power as well.
Head Coach Travis Quattrini said, “I’ve coached a lot of good shortstops; Nick Roselli, Carmelo Musacchia, Luke Filippi, Jack Vallario, Bayram Hot, Ryan Ferremi, James Goff, etc…this kid has a chance to be the best one of them all,” he added. Quattrini’s team this season was among the best not just in the Mid-Atlantic but also in the nation as they were just ranked 23rd by Perfect Game.
Baseball fans won’t have to wait too long to watch him, either. There’s a pretty strong likelihood that he will be a key piece of St. John the Baptist’s varsity team this season.
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?
Yes, I started playing travel baseball when I was 6-years-old. From a young age, I knew how much I enjoyed the game. I have dabbled in some other sports like football and wrestling but I never stopped playing baseball. I plan to focus on baseball throughout high school and hopefully into college.
Who are some people that have had a positive influence on your life?
I am fortunate enough to have many amazing people in my life. My mom and dad do everything they can do to support me and my two sisters. They push me to be a good, kind and caring person and to work hard to achieve success in life. My dad has coached me and worked with me since I was 4-years-old. He would always bring me to hit and teach me the right mechanics to be a better player. I am so grateful to my LI Lightning coaches Tom Wildeman and Jim Zegers along with my father who let me play on a team two years up as an 8-year-old and be the starting shortstop. They believed in me and gave me the guidance and confidence I needed to grow. Also, being able to train with Coach Dom Gatti in the offseason when I was younger and learning from one of the best.
Who are your favorite players in Major League Baseball and why?
There are lots of players in the MLB I like, but I love the way Bo Bichette plays and the way he swings and makes difficult plays look easy. He is definitely my favorite player.
Biggest thrill you’ve had on a baseball field?
There have been many amazing moments during my early baseball career. One of the best moments would definitely be the Cooperstown experience. I was fortunate enough to be able to go when I was 10-years-old where I hit my first home run against a very talented Seattle team. And again 2 years later, with our Titans Quattrini team. Although we came up a little short in the championship game, it will always be a great memory for myself and my teammates.
Why did you choose to attend St. John the Baptist?
Both of my parents went to Catholic HS and really valued the education. They wanted the same for me. I went to see the school and met with the baseball coaches who had so much pride in the school and the athletic program. It made me want to be a part of that experience. I love St. John the Baptist more than I could have imagined.
What has your experience been like on the Long Island Titans?
My experience with this team has been amazing. My teammates are really tough competitors and we are great friends. We always work together to compete and know what it takes to get the job done. Our team was just ranked 23rd in the nation, 2nd in the region and 1st in NY state. I could not be more proud of the team we have become under head coach Travis Quattrini and Mike Demarest. They really built something great by putting in the extra time and energy to guide us on-and-off the field.
Toughest pitcher you’ve faced?
I have faced many amazing pitchers. One of the toughest opponents I have faced was a recent pitcher from All Star Baseball Academy. The kid was up to 88 MPH, very consistent change up and a very good slider. He was very talented in every aspect of the game and I can’t wait to face him again.
Favorite app on your phone?
Favorite meal?
Steak is my favorite but also a big fan of sushi.
Favorite vacation spot?
It’s tough to pick a favorite but any vacation that involves snowboarding or swimming in the ocean is the perfect getaway for me.
Favorite movie?
Field of Dreams
Do you work with any private instructors?
Travis Quattrini has been my private instructor for over two years. We met when my dad brought me down to do a private tryout for the Titans when I was 12 years old. He has been an awesome role model who supports and pushes me to do better every day. I am so fortunate to have him guide me through this journey. He works with me a few times a week hitting and fielding.
What are you looking to work on this offseason?
In the offseason, I am working out several days per week alternating between weightlifting/cardio and hitting/fielding in order to keep my body healthy and strong for the upcoming spring and summer season.
Any family members that played college sports?
My dad played baseball in college at Molloy and then transferred to Arizona State University. Also, my sister will be attending Penn State University in the fall on a full athletic scholarship for gymnastics.
