(Editor’s Note: This is the twelfth installment of the Up Next Series in which we highlight the top underclassmen on Long Island. Previously, we featured Everett Zarzicki, Brian Brower, Stellan Zangari, Ryan Bush, Bryce Cutrone, Justin Ortiz, Colin Raymond, Jagger Adamo, JD Duffy, Chris Sultana, Matt Zambriski. Special thanks to State Farm Ken Kortright Agency for sponsoring this year’s series.)
It’s not often that a freshman is called up with two weeks left in the season and winds up winning you a playoff game. That’s exactly what happened with Hauppauge as freshman infielder Tucker Brown came up against Hills West RHP Ryan Muskopf and hit a go-ahead two-run single up the middle to break a 6-6 tie. Hauppauge held on to win by the score of 8-6.
Hauppauge freshman Tucker Brown ripping a go-ahead 2-R single in the bottom of the 6th to break a 6-6 tie against Hills West in a first round playoff game. Hauppauge hung on to win 8-6 pic.twitter.com/M48yI1Jqqt
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) January 14, 2024
In his two weeks with varsity, Brown went 7-for-12 (.583 AVG) with three walks. Additionally, he is a power arm that will be an impact pitcher for them this upcoming season. Head Coach Josh Gutes spoke glowingly of his sophomore sensation.
“Tucker is mature beyond his years. He is an incredible athlete and is as respectful a kid as you’ll ever find. He can make every play in the field, he throws three pitches for strikes on the mound and he is such a difficult out at the plate. He can drag or push a bunt for a hit. He’s the perfect hit & run guy. He can get you the big two out hit late in the game or he can voluntarily move a runner over to help the team. The fact that he’s only a sophomore makes it that much better. He is a star in the making.”
He will be a player to watch over the next three seasons if this is any indication. Additionally, he is a well-rounded athlete as he also plays volleyball and is the point guard on the basketball team.
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
Who are some people that have had a positive influence on your career?
Chris Bush – he had helped me develop from a very young age and gave me perspective on the defensive end and the IQ that I need for the game.
Pat Lennon – I’ve worked with Pat for many years and he’s the coach who had helped me develop the swing that I have today.
Who are your favorite players in Major League Baseball?
Francisco Lindor because he has incredible footwork and quick hands in the infield which makes him look incredibly smooth throughout a lot of plays. Isiah Kiner-Falefa is a great teammate and brings life to a team no matter how the game is going. He’s a player who is always ready for an opportunity and will ball out when his number is called and puts team first in any situation.
What has your time been like with MVP Baseball?
My time with MVP has been great. Pete Kritikos has done a very good job building our team with great ball players and even better people. The bond we have on MVP is great and I’m looking forward to this upcoming summer with my teammates.
You had great success in your time on varsity. What was that experience like? Who were some players that helped you feel like you belonged?
Playing on varsity last season was a very exciting experience playing against some great competition. I was lucky to be surrounded by amazing teammates including Matt Neglia and Mike Oliveto.
What are your goals for this offseason?
My main goal is to put on some more weight and keep getting stronger in the gym. I also want to increase my speed and footwork on the diamond.
What has been the biggest thrill you’ve had on a baseball field?
My biggest thrill was my first playoff game for Hauppauge in round one against Hills West. The atmosphere and intensity of the game was amazing. I was fortunate enough to have the go-ahead 2-RBI base hit in the bottom of the sixth.
Favorite restaurant on Long Island?
Izumi
Favorite musical artist?
Drake
Favorite app on your phone?
Snapchat
Favorite vacation spot?
Florida
Dream Car?
Jeep Gladiator
Any family members that played college sports?
Mom played tennis at the University of Kentucky and my dad played tennis at Wayne State University.
Best baseball trip you’ve been on?
Triple Crown Underclassman Summer Nationals in Myrtle Beach. The competition was great and I had a great time bonding with my teammates.
