(This is the eleventh 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, Mason Gatchalian & Jagger Franco. You can view all of them by clicking here. Special thanks to Ken Kortright State Farm Agency for sponsoring this year’s series.)
Evan Frangas (Plainview JFK 2028) pic.twitter.com/1JtKbsGdV0
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) January 13, 2025
Plainview JFK has been one of the more consistent program in Nassau County over the past 7 seasons when they were led by Diamond Award winner Mark Faello. Since that time, they’ve also had Dylan Banner and Mike D’Ambrosio put up huge seasons and walkaway with some hardware. Both of them posted some of the best two-way seasons we’ve seen on Long Island.
Although he’s just entering his freshman season, there’s another player in the pipeline that potentially could have that type of impact.
Enter Evan Frangas, a LHP and 1B that also bats from the left side.
His school ball coach, John Givargidze, noted he’s been familiar with him for years as he was his elementary school teacher. He said he’ll have an opportunity to try out for varsity come spring time. He’ll only be the fifth player in Givargidze’s 12 years to be allowed that opportunity – and they are all recognizable names.
- Mark Faello (Diamond Award winner – pitched in pro ball)
- Dylan Banner (Diamond Award winner – Univ. at Albany)
- Mike D’Ambrosio (Diamond Award winner – Hofstra University)
- Sebastian Lippman (Georgia Tech)
History suggests he’ll be at least a college ballplayer if he adds his name to that. It was a monster season for Frangas playing for Team Francisco Notorious 9.
Hitting:
.481 AVG/.566 OBP/.864 SLG/1.430 OPS
6 HRs, 24 doubles, 10 triples, 30 BBs, 64 RBIs, 77 R, 29 stolen bases over 62 games
Pitching:
5-1 record, 60 Ks over 43 innings
His coach, Joe Francisco, had the following to say:
“Evan is one of the most dynamic players in the country at 14u with plus bat speed and explosive power. He has the ability to dominate a game in all facets whether it is hitting, pitching or with his speed/athleticism combination. His projection and upside rivals any player that we’ve had in the organization. I’m extremely excited to see what the future holds for Evan.”
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 main sport since I was 5-years-old. I have had a passion for baseball since I was young; practicing and playing as much as possible for as long as I can remember. I also play volleyball for my school team.
Any family members that played college sports?
My cousin, Alex Hospodar, is currently a Division-I softball pitcher. She plays for Stonehill College in Massachusetts.
What was the most thrilling moment you’ve had on a baseball field?
The most thrilling moment I’ve had on a baseball field was hitting my first home run. This was a special moment for me during my 11u season because when I was younger, I had always dreamed of hitting one over. So when it finally happened, it was a huge moment for me that I will never forget.
How have you enjoyed your time with Team Francisco?
I have really enjoyed my time playing for Team Francisco because we have the best training on Long Island. Joe always puts our team in the best tournaments, against the best competition. I have teammates who are just as hardworking and passionate about baseball as I am. We work hard and it pays off. We have won many high level tournaments like PG. I have enjoyed learning more about the game and improving with my teammates.
Do you take private lessons with any instructors?
I have never taken private lessons with any instructors. I train with my dad, both on and offseason since I started playing baseball. My dad has been the biggest influence on my baseball career. He has taught me so much about the game and is my biggest supporter.
What was your goal for this offseason?
One of my goals for this offseason was to work on strength and speed, as well as further develop my pitches. I believe that one of the greatest keys to success in baseball is putting in the time and getting as many reps as possible.
Any personal goals for 2025?
One of my personal goals for 2025 is to learn and refine a few new pitches, as well as improving my exit Velo through strength training.
Favorite players in Major League Baseball?
My favorite player in the MLB is Shohei Ohtani because of his two-way abilities and work ethic.
Favorite baseball movie?
The Sandlot. It is a funny movie that brings me back good memories from when I was younger.
Favorite app on your phone?
TikTok
Walk-up song for 2025?
Major Distribution by Drake
Favorite restaurant on Long Island?
My favorite restaurant is One10 in Melville.
Best baseball trip you’ve been on?
The best baseball trip I have ever been on were my weeks in Cooperstown. I went to Cooperstown two years in a row, at 11 and 12 years old, and got to experience both parks. Traveling with my team to play baseball for a full week was one of the greatest experiences I’ve ever had. We made it to the final 8 at Dreams Park – which was very exciting. I will always remember the great competition and god times we had those weeks.
Favorite vacation spot?
My favorite vacation spot is Yellowstone National Park. We hiked in the mountains and saw a lot of wildlife I had not seen before. The hikes were difficult, but worth it in the end.
Dream Car?
Black Ferrari
