(This is the eleventh 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, Max Donacea, Keegan McElligot and Lucien Saint Cyr. Make sure to check out Eye Q Investigations by clicking here)
It is incredibly rare that an 8th grader would be a starter at the varsity level – and even more so on a playoff caliber team. Carey was 15-2-1 during the regular season last year and took an undefeated record halfway into the season. Although there was contributors up-and-down the roster, a big reason was their leadoff hitter extraordinaire Jayden Gigante. The pesky leadoff hitter performed well above any reasonable expectation and he batted .393 with a .512 OBP, 1.053 OPS, scored 29 runs, drew 14 walks and was successful on 17-of-18 stolen base attempts. He even drove in 13 runs and was named All-Conference.
Coach Doug Robins said, “Jayden is extremely hard-working and driven to improve on a daily basis. He’s a team-first guy, who’s always looking to put team ahead of himself. He’s an old-school type of athlete,” he added.
I had a chance to speak with Jayden and here’s what he had to say…
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Was baseball always your No. 1 sport?
I was involved in many sports growing up, from dribbling a basketball at 15 months old to playing T-ball at 4-years-old, then playing golf at 6-years-old and dirt bike riding at age 8. Baseball was always the sport I gravitated towards and dedicated my time to.
Who are some people that have had a positive influence on your career?
My parents, Coach Robins and travel baseball coaches are some of the people that have had a positive influence on my career. My parents have played an important role in my life. They inspire me, support me and help me achieve my goals. I get my drive and hard work from them and they are my biggest fans. I met Coach Robins when I was in 8th grade. He worked with me at all of the practices and helped me improve my skills. He took a chance on me by bringing me up to varsity baseball. My travel baseball coaches have known me since I was 6-years-old. They helped me develop me into the player I am today.
Who are your favorite players in Major League Baseball?
My favorite players are Trea Turner, Mookie Betts and Mike Trout. I aspire to be as fast as Trea Turner, hard-working like Mookie Betts and to be a five-tool player like Trout.
Do you take private lessons with any instructors?
No, I do not take private lessons. I train with my travel team 3 days per week and I practice my daily hitting routine after school.
What has been the most thrilling moment on the baseball field?
I have two thrilling moments on the baseball field…first was at an 11u championship game, we were down 6-4 in the last inning. I’m up at bat with the bases loaded and hit a grand slam and we won the championship game. Second was when I hit my first home run at 9u Districts against Garden City.
Favorite meal?
Chicken Parm
Favorite app on your phone?
TikTok, I love to watch baseball content and I learn new things.
Favorite musical artist?
Drake
Best baseball trip you’ve been on?
Going to Cooperstown at 10-years-old and hitting 4 home runs (2 in one game). I placed 8 out of 60 for the “fastest person in camp”. I had a great time with my teammates and we made great memories together. I also enjoyed visiting the Cooperstown Baseball Hall of Fame.
Goals for 2023?
To run a 6.5 60-yard dash, to make All-County, to get stronger and faster and to continue to achieve good grades.
