Uncommitted 6’3 LHP Jack Durso (Kellenberg 2025). Fastball up to 86 MPH. Player to watch pic.twitter.com/h7iRKIEIAR
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) January 24, 2023
(This is the 13th 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, Lucien Saint Cyr, Jayden Gigante and CJ Alfano. Make sure to check out Eye Q Investigations by clicking here)
When Kellenberg had their run of back-to-back CHSAA Championship in 2016 and 2017 they did so in large part to their dominant pitching staff. While there were certainly contributors all over the roster, the formula was a lights out trio in 2017 with seniors Chris Cappas, Andrew Williams and sophomore Jason Diaz.
Could there be a return to that dynamic combination in the year 2023? It is at least possible. The staff will undoubtedly be anchored by Wake Forest-commit Andrew Koshy. The hard-throwing RHP is a true ace and he will keep them in every game. Additionally, they have another promising RHP in senior Ryan Carroll – a 6’7′ under-the-radar talent that missed last season.
Looming on the horizon is 6’3 southpaw Jack Durso – younger brother of St. John’s catcher Joe. Jack has not officially been called up to varsity and the school typically prefers to keep the athletes in their respective age levels. Eventually, however, Durso will be on varsity and hitters will not be thrilled at that.
This summer when playing for the Body Armor Titans, he compiled a 4-0 record with 35 strikeouts over 24 innings, allowing just 2 ER. Durso’s velocity has been up to 86 MPH and has already garnered plenty of interest from Div-I schools.
It will take a great team to beat Chaminade and end their run of championships, but Durso is the type of talent that you want to build around.
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
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Who are your favorite players in Major League Baseball?
Trevor Bauer and Bryce Harper are my two favorite players in the league right now. I love the intensity and energy they bring to the game and I try to emulate that on the field.
Who are some people that have had a positive impact on your career?
My brother and my dad both have had a huge impact on my career. My brother plays Division-I baseball at St. John’s and he gives me all the information I need to succeed at the next level. My dad, who played pro ball, is my biggest motivator. He is always on my tail if I am not working hard enough or if I’m not performing well.
Why did you choose to attend Kellenberg?
I chose Kellenberg because my brother went there. Every day he would come home from school with a smile on his face and a story to tell about how great it is. Now that I’m there, I can 100% see why. Kellenberg has changed my life and still does every day.
Do you work with any private instructors?
I work with Bobby DeMichael, Joe Francisco and Shaun Manning. All three of them help me get better and improve every day and become the best baseball player I can possibly be.
What’s the biggest thrill you’ve had on a baseball field?
I have two moments that come to mind. One is beating Chaminade in the Catholic League semifinals to advance to the championship. I pitched 6 innings and went 4-for-4 on the day. The other moment was beating St. Anthony’s in the championship at home. I hit a walk-off single against one of my good teammates and didn’t let him hear the end of it.
Favorite meal?
My favorite meal is steak with French fries.
Favorite app on your phone?
My favorite app on my phone is Snapchat. It’s the one I use the most.
Dream car?
Tesla
Favorite vacation spot?
My favorite vacation spot is Lexington, South Carolina. My family and I go down there once per year to stay with our family friends. They are also a big baseball family.
