(This is the 13th 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 and Tucker Brown. Special thank you to State Farm Ken Kortright Agency for sponsoring this year’s series.)
Final: New York Longhorns 12, EEP Bandits 0
WP: Christian CalabroLonghorns capture the 12u @EcybTournaments Labor Day Bash pic.twitter.com/95NFJktn4W
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) September 5, 2022
If there was a big game to be won, Christian Calabro was taking the mound for the NY Longhorns. And there was many big games, as they have won numerous tournament and league championships.
Calabro, a 6’0 140 lb RHP/3B/OF is only in 8th grade but has accomplished a lot in his young career. He will be attending Chaminade HS, Long Island’s baseball factory.
In 2023, Calabro played a huge role on the NY Longhorn’s team that won 1st place in Cooperstown. He put on a performance for the ages as he went 3-0 and struck out 17 batters over 8 innings. The low inning total was due to all the run-rule victories for the Longhorns. Additionally, he batted .652 with 6 HRs and 19 RBIs over 10 games.
Christian Calabro New York Longhorns 11u with go ahead 2 run single off right field fence @PGMidAtlantic #Super25NationalChamp pic.twitter.com/bkMuuUI0qO
— Perfect Game Youth (@PGYouthBB) July 12, 2022
Over the course of the season, he batted .408 with 20 HRs, 80 RBIs at the plate and a ridiculous 16-1 record over 76 innings with a 1.25 ERA and 122 punch outs.
His fastball has been clocked at 79 MPH – which would be good for a player entering their junior or senior year of HS and he hasn’t even began his 8th grade year.
Calabro will be a player to watch over the years, and if 2023 was any indication, he could have a long career ahead of him.
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
Who are some people who have had a positive impact on your career?
My dad for pushing me daily and keeping me focused. Coach Paulsen and Coach Maisano for teaching the game the right way, and driving me to be better every practice and game.
Who are your favorite players in Major League Baseball?
I’m a huge Mets fan and I love watching Brandon Nimmo because of how he hustles and his positivity. He plays the game the way it’s supposed to be played.
Do you take private lessons with any instructors?
I work with the best out there. Tyler Levine of the Arm Academy, Joe Francisco from TF, Dan Luisi from Max Effort and I strength train with Cornell Warrick of 1MR.
Do you play any other sports?
I play basketball for my school.
What has been the biggest thrill of your career?
My biggest thrill was being down in the quarterfinals in Cooperstown and hitting a game-tying homer in there 5th, and then coming into the game to shut it down in the 6th.
Favorite musical artist?
I listen to a little bit of everything.
Favorite restaurant on Long Island?
Steve’s Piccola Bussola in Westbury is the best.
Best baseball trip you’ve been on?
Ripken Myrtle Beach because we stayed in a resort on the ocean and it was a lot of fun hanging out with the boys.
Favorite movie?
Happy Gilmore
Favorite app on your phone?
Goals for 2024?
I would like to increase my velocity on the mound as well as increasing my overall strength and skills in the field
Best pitcher you’ve ever faced?
Bryce Tessyman of Grit Black/Norteast United is absolutely filthy.
Favorite vacation spot?
Orlando and Jupiter, FLA.
