(This is the fifth installment of the popular “Up Next” Series in which we highlight the top underclassmen on Long Island. Previously, we featured Dylan Weinstein, Jaxson Torres, Richie Roberts and Joe Maxwell. Special thanks to Ken Kortright State Farm Agency for sponsoring this series.)
St. Dominic HS took the league by storm during the 2024 regular season, securing the No. 1 seed in the postseason thanks in large part to their dominant 1-2 punch of Victor Frederick and Luke Lang as well as their bevy of freshmen and sophomores that proved that they were ready for the challenge of the Catholic League.
One of those young players in particular was infielder Dom Muccia who batted leadoff and did more than held own – he went All-League becoming the first St. Dom’s freshman to achieve that feat since Sean Lane in 2018.
He batted .342 with a .443 OBP and .840 OPS over 88 plate appearances with 15 runs scored for the Bayhawks. The fact is, Muccia had already been playing at the varsity level since his time at Huntington when he was called up as an 8th grader.
His high school coach, Joe Fusco, had the following to say:
Dominic Muccia (‘27, NY) #14uNational @PGMidAtlantic pic.twitter.com/ogQEHMKs0N
— PG Showcases (@PGShowcases) July 26, 2024
“Dom showed up in the fall of his freshmen year ready to compete. By the spring, he was able to do more than just compete. For the majority of the season, he dominated. He had 27 hits as a freshman, hit over .300. He hit leadoff for us all year. I know he’s eyeing the St. Dominic all-time hit record as a goal for himself. As long as he stays healthy, I think he’s going to have a chance to walk out of our program in 3 years with a lot of program records. I’m lucky enough to get to coach him at St. Dominic and over the summer with Showtime. He will be a member of the first Long Island Tigers team we are re-establishing as well. He’s a special player and his numbers always back that up. Even this summer, he hit over .360 against top competition. He can just flat out play.”
Two years ago, Muccia garnered attention when he captured the HR Derby at Cooperstown Dreams Park in 2022. Now he has shown that his talents have transitioned onto the big field against the best competition.
Muccia works with E.J. Cumbo in the offseason on his swing. Cumbo is a 2017 graduate of Clarke HS, where he holds the program’s single-season record for hitting. He also was a National Champion at the University of Tampa. He had the following to say:
“Coach Fusco and I have spoke on multiple occasions this past summer about Dom Muccia and the ability he has to impact the top of the order for St. Dom’s and Showtime. At the plate, Dom’s barrel control and ability to adjust to all pitch locations is an invaluable tool to succeed at a high level. With the ability to drive the ball to all fields with authority. Dom shows he is capable of changing the game at any moment. In addition to his incredible skills, Dom’s desire to improve during each and every training session is a coach’s dream and will put him in a great position to succeed this upcoming high school season and beyond.”
I spoke with Muccia and here’s what he had to say…
Was baseball always your No. 1 sport?
Baseball was always my No. 1 sport. It is the only sport I play.
Any family members play college sports?
My dad played Division-III football at Alfred University.
Who are some people that have had a positive impact on your career?
Some people that have had a positive impact on my career are my parents and coaches, My parents want to see me improve and they are always there when I need them. MY coaches push me to the limit and point me in the right direction.
What was it like playing varsity as a freshman?
It was amazing playing varsity as a freshman for St. Dom’s. Getting the start at second base and hitting leadoff meant a lot to me. Earning All-League in the toughest league on the island was a great honor.
What has been the most thrilling moment you’ve had on a field?
The most thrilling moment on the field was when I got to play at Loan Depot Park on the Marlins Field and meeting one of my favorite players Jazz Chisholm before the event.
What was the best baseball trip you’ve been on?
The best baseball trip I was on was last summer in the Triple Crown tournament at Myrtle Beach. We played against great competition and won the tournament.
Goals for this offseason?
This offseason I’m looking to get stronger – especially for the upcoming St. Dom’s season.
Any pregame superstitions?
My superstition is that I pray before every game.
Goals for 2025?
My goals for the 2025 season are to achieve Hitter of the Year for St. Dom’s and become the best overall player I can be.
Favorite restaurant on Long Island?
La Piazza in Huntington Station.
Favorite app on your phone?
Snapchat
Favorite TV show and movie?
Stranger Things and Space Jam.
Favorite players in Major League Baseball?
My favorite players are Jazz Chisholm and Bryce Harper because I look to model my game after them.
Favorite vacation spot?
Miami
Dream Car?
Audi RS 7
