(This is the 14h 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 McElligott, Lucien Saint Cyr, Jayden Gigante, CJ Alfano and Jack Durso. Make sure to check out Eye Q Investigations by clicking here)
For Holy Trinity to return to their prominence of 2010 and 2012, it will take a full team effort. They took a step forward in 2022 and were near the top of the CHSAA standings all season with Chaminade, but ultimately they ran out of steam in the postseason.
They currently have a plethora of talented seniors such as Sebastian Velasquez, Brian Zweigbaum, Nicholas Delvecchio and Nico Quiroz but they also have plenty of younger players in the pipeline.
Uncommitted Victor Acosta Jr (Holy Trinity 2026) pic.twitter.com/kEm6aBnxx5
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) January 31, 2023
One player that just entered HS and may be a year or two away from contributing at the varsity level is Victor Acosta Jr. The do-it-all freshman already has varsity experience at Valley Stream Central and has played some high-level travel ball.
This summer while playing for the AA Elite, who compiled a batting AVG of .351 with 2 HRs and he also struck out 56 over 50.2 innings on the mound with a fastball that was up to 83 MPH.
Coach Luisi described him as a “super athletic, 2-way player that can play any position.” He added that “he has a really good feel for his swing, and plus barrel pop.”
He spoke to Axcess Baseball and here’s what he had to say…
Who are your favorite players in Major League Baseball and why?
My favorite players in Major League Baseball are Aaron Judge and Mike Trout because they are both committee to the discipline it takes to be successful at this game. Aaron keeps notes of the things he needs work on to have the best showings during games. Mike is all about hard-work and family. Both of these players are great role models to look up to because they not only prove what handwork can do but they also lead by example with how to manage time between training and being with family. My favorite thing to do is study their swings to get pointers on making my swing better.
Who are some people that have had a positive influence on your career?
Some people that have had a positive influence on my career are my parents. My mother goes above and beyond to make sure I know I’m loved and she supports anything I need to do to reach my goals. My dad is there with me all the way. He makes sure that I understand that baseball is a man’s game and that if I’m going to play baseball I have to step up and be mentally and physically strong. He always makes sure no matter what the situation is, that I know he will always have my back. I wouldn’t be where I am today without my parents. My coaches and trainers are also positive influences as well. They push me beyond my limits so that I know what my true potential is.
Most thrilling moment you’ve had on a baseball field?
My most thrilling moment I’ve had on the baseball field was at a tournament in Diamond Nation. I hit 2 home runs back-to-back. And there was a bunch of teams watching so I felt good about myself after that.
Was baseball always your No. 1 sport?
Not initially – I played basketball and football growing up. But now my focus has shifted to baseball.
Why did you choose Holy Trinity?
I chose to attend Holy Trinity because I feel that my experience there will help me prepare for college academically and athletically.
Do you take private lessons with any instructors?
Yes, currently I train at Turn 2 Fitness where I do agility and speed training with owner CJ. In addition to that, I also train with Skyline Performance where I focus on improving my swing with Allan and Arm Care with Alex Cuas.
What travel team do you play for?
AA Elite
Favorite app on your phone?
Favorite meal?
Chicken Alfredo
Dream car?
Tesla Model X
Favorite movie or TV show?
Outer Banks on Netflix
Favorite vacation spot?
Puerro Rico, Aguadilla
Goals for 2023?
My goals for 2023 are to be a better student academically. I don’t want to work if colleges will accept me because my grades were average. The road to my success starts in the classroom, so I want to do better there and prove that I’m capable. Also, as always maintain great work ethic even when it gets tough. I’ve worked harder this off-season more than I ever have before. I’m ready to show everyone just how hard I worked and reap the benefits of it.