(This is the ninth 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, Joe Maxwell, Dom Muccia, Fred Klauck, Logan Lamberson and Jake Ostertag. Special thanks to Ken Kortright State Farm Agency for sponsoring this year’s series.)
1B Mason Gatchalian (Eastport-South Manor 2027) displaying his power with a homer at Diamond Nation pic.twitter.com/UEUt8aHKMn
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) December 30, 2024
Mason Gatchalian put himself on the map this spring for Eastport-South Manor as he was not only called up to varsity as a freshman, but batted in the middle of the order every game and was also their high-leverage reliever.
He comes from a baseball family, as his older brother plays 1st base at Marywood University.
The 5’11 175 lb slugger put up outstanding numbers during the summer for the East Coast Lumberjacks, and being named to several PG All-Tournament teams.
43-for-116 (.365 AVG) with 11 doubles, 5 triples, 2 homers, 50 RBIs, 45 runs scored, 40 walks and 15 stolen bases. He posted a robust .510 OBP and .625 SLG for a 1.135 OPS.
On the bump, he was just as dominant – 40 IP, 4 wins, 22 hits allowed, 60 Ks, .180 opponent AVG and .290 ERA.
His summer coach, Ryan Pembroke, had the following to say:
“Mason had a great first year with the Lumberjacks. He had an immediate impact on the field, he has a high ceiling with untapped potential. He is a very physical presence at the plate and on the mound. Mason has gap-to-gap power and has already proven he can leave the yard – one being against a top 25 program in the country at Diamond Nation. Mason is a three-sport athlete which shows he has tremendous athleticism as well. On the mound, Mason’s fastball this past year was 81-84 MPH with a good curveball and developing changeup. This offseason will be big for Mason as he continues to take strides in his game and we expect him to garner a ton of interest when August 1 hits.
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
Was baseball always your No. 1 sport? Do you play any other sports?
Baseball has always been my No. 1 sport. I also play varsity volleyball and basketball. My volleyball team was the state champs this year.
Do you have any family members that played college sports?
My brother, Tristan, is the first baseman at Marywood University.
Who are some people that have had a positive impact on your career?
My parents – my dad always takes time to give me reps after working at LI Sports Zone. My mom always pushes me to be a student athlete. My brother always lets me tag along which has pushed me to work harder to keep up with him and his friends. Lastly, my cousin Tyler unexpectedly passed away. His passing made me realize not to take anything for granted. His dad is so supportive of me and follows everything I do.
What was it like playing varsity as a freshman?
Playing varsity as a freshman was exciting but, at times, stressful. I knew I was pulled up to play my brother’s position after he graduated and those are big shoes to fill. I quickly learned I just have to play baseball.
When was the moment you felt like you belonged at the varsity level?
The moment I felt like I belonged on varsity was the series against Rocky Point. I played a big role in that series and proved I was a big asset to the team.
Best baseball trip you’ve been on?
All time best was Cooperstown. I made great memories with a bunch of my teammates. I would’ve never thought while we were there that within 3 years one of my best friends on the team, Nolan Horn, would pass away from cancer.
Have you enjoyed your time with the East Coast Lumberjacks?
Playing with ECL has given me a chance to travel the US and play with a different caliber of players and coaching which has absolutely made me a better player overall.
Favorite professional athlete?
Trevor Bauer. He has influential videos on YouTube that I find very helpful with pitching.
Favorite app on your phone?
YouTube
Walk up song for 2025?
Surround Sound Clean by 21 Savage
Goals for this offseason?
I am looking forward to going to the gym and getting stronger.
What was the most thrilling experience you’ve had on a baseball field?
Hitting a 2-run homer to start the rally against Northeast Pride ’26 National at Diamond Nation.
Any pregame rituals?
Listening to music on the car ride to the game.
Goals for 2025?
Goals for 2025 season is to get bigger and stronger in the gym sand hit 87 MPH on the mound and 95 MPH at the plate.
Best vacation spot?
Aruba
Dream car?
1968 Ford Mustang California Special
