24 hits as an 8th grader. 26 hits as a 9th grader and 40 hits as a 10th grader. That is some rarified air for any player.
Carey OF Jayden Gigante has had a tremendous start to his high school career, and he still has a full 2 seasons left. This week he recently announced his verbal commitment to St. John’s, where he will join his summer ball teammate, Andrew Caramico in 2 years. He also received interest from UCONN, Boston College, Stony Brook, Rutgers and North Carolina.
His school ball coach, Doug Robins, had this to say about his young star.
“He is a fiver tool player. Jayden has become a tremendous player through hard work and dedication. His range in the outfield is off the charts – he covers the gaps.He has been a starter since 8th grade. He’s a gamer and rises up to the big moments in games. He wants to be that guy who’s at the plate with the game on the line. In my 28 years of coaching HS baseball, he’s right there with the best of them. The coaching staff views him as a potential Diamond Award type player this season even as a junior.”
This past season, he batted. .444 with a .509 OBP, 33 runs scored scored and 21 RBIS in 90 at bats. He also is a true burner on the bases with a 6.6 60-yard dash and a weapon in the outfield with a 90 MPH throwing velocity.
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he said…
Can you explain what your experience was like with the college recruiting process and why you chose St. John’s?
My recruiting process started pretty early on August 1st, where I would receive a few phone calls, one of them being from St. John’s. I had a chance to have a great conversation with Coach Brown and immediately felt a connection. I was able to have the opportunity to tour the campus and meet Coach Brown and Coach Valente. I really enjoyed what the campus had to offer and felt very comfortable with the coaching staff. They showed me what it was like to play in their program and really showed interest in me as a person and player. I felt that my playing style would really fit well into their program.
Who are some people that have had a positive impact on your career?
My parents have been a huge part of my success. They have went above and beyond to help me succeed and I can’t thank them enough. I also want to shoutout my high school coach Douglas Robins and my coaches from Next Level organization, Coach Shaun manning and Coach Vinny Garelick. These 3 coaches have been a huge help in my development and in my recruiting process. I want to thank them for their help in my career.
Do you take private lessons with any instructors?
I don’t take any private lessons. I work on my own as much as possible. I try to hit and work at the gym daily. I also train with Next Level 3-4 times a week.
What has been the most thrilling moment of your playing career?
I can’t think of just one particular moment but I’d say it would definitely be with my 2024 Carey High School team. Playing with an amazing group of guys with great energy made each game exciting and thrilling. We have such great chemist and we all work really hard, all the work paid off last season.
What was the best baseball trip you’ve been on?
The best baseball trip I’ve been on was Cooperstown All-Star Village. I was lucky to have the opportunity to go when I was 10-years-old. I had a blast with the groups of kids I went with and overall played really well throughout that week.
Goals for 2025?
My goals for 2025 are to continue to do well in school and to achieve All-County and All-Long Island honors.
Favorite TV Show?
Sopranos
Favorite app on your phone?
TikTok
Any pregame superstitions?
My pregame superstition is to eat a bag of strawberry sour straw candies before each high school game.
Favorite musical artist?
Maroon 5 or Drake
Favorite player in Major League Baseball?
My favorite MLB player is Mookie Betts. I enjoy watching him because we have a very similar playing style and he’s just a great athlete overall.
