(This is the tenth 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, Jake Ostertag and Mason Gatchalian. Special thanks to Ken Kortright State Farm Agency for sponsoring this year’s series.)
Jagger Franco (Longwood 2027) turning on one for an extra base hit at the Kings Point Classic pic.twitter.com/fAQsK2SB5h
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) January 6, 2025
It is exceptionally rare that a player will start the game behind the dish and end up on the mound – unless it’s an absolute necessity.
Jagger Franco (Longwood 2027) did so this past season on a few occasions while playing for the Blue Line Rangers. The ultra-athletic sophomore, is the type of player that can handle the workload of being a starting catcher, close out the game on a mound and provide punch offensively to hit in the top of the batting order.
“Jagger is one of those rare, special players whose athleticism stands above everyone on the field. He will catch a game, then close it out. He’ll make crazy plays at short, get three hits and steal 4 bases. His versatility is extraordinary,” said coach Eric Strovink.
“He’s an extremely talented multi-positional player with soft hands and a cannon for an arm. Tremendous upside as a right-handed pitcher,” said coach Eric Reichenbach.
Strong throw to second by Jagger Franco pic.twitter.com/xX7AfrrejE
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) January 6, 2025
It was a busy year for Franco who was named to 6 PG All-Tournament teams. He finished the year ranked as the 2nd best catcher in the 2027 class in NY by Perfect Game. He was also up to 86 MPH on the mound.
It will be fascinating to see how he is employed at the varsity level. Obviously, it is a tall task to play catcher and pitcher in the same series let alone the same game. His bat should make him enough of a weapon to keep him in the lineup when he’s not pitching.
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 was always the sport I loved and wanted to play but I was a varsity wrestler since 8th grade and recently decided to quit to focus on baseball.
Any family members that played college sports?
My cousins Jake and Jordan Naso both played college lacrosse. Jake is now in the PLL and Jordan is still playing at the University of Tampa.
Who are some people that have had a positive impact on your career?
Coach Jayson Toth has been the man to go to for any problems on or off the field since I was 10 years old. However, the people that have had the biggest impact on my career are my parents. They do anything and everything they can to get me where I need to be and raise a good kid.
Do you take private lessons from any instructors?
I have never taken any private lessons. Everything I do is with my brother and dad at a nearby field.
What has been your most thrilling moment on a baseball field?
My most thrilling moment was definitely the entire Ripken tournament in 2023. My family and I got into a car crash on the way to the tournament and I ended up pitching in the Championship game going on to winning the tournament.
Best baseball trip you’ve been on?
My favorite baseball trip was definitely to Texas with my dad to play in the All State game. This trip will always be my favorite.
What are you looking to work on this offseason?
My main goal this offseason is to put as much weight and muscle I can before the spring season.
Any personal goals for 2025?
One goal I have is to hit 90 by the spring and overall improve in eery way I can.
Any pregame superstitions?
Jumping over the foul line off my left food. I have no reason behind it but I do it every game.
What will your walk-up song be this year?
Definitely Trap Queen by Fetty Wap. That’s a banger.
Favorite app on your phone?
Definitely Instagram
Favorite restaurant on Long Island?
My favorite restaurant has to be Viva Juan. That spot is fire.
Favorite TV Show or movie?
Definitely Sandlot or Hardball. RIP G-Baby.
Favorite vacation spot?
South Carolina. Clemson games are fire.
Dream Car?
BMW M4 Competition Matte Black
