(Editor’s Note: This is the eighteenth 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, Logan Lamberson, Fred Klauck, Jake Ostertag, Mason Gatchalian, Jagger Franco, Evan Frangas, Ryan Matson, Dylan Frers, Aidan Dobrie, Tyler D’Amico, Lucas Sweeting & Shea Corona. You can read them all by clicking here. Special thanks to Ken Kortright State Farm Agency for sponsoring this year’s series.)
The era of the two-way players is upon us. While the phrase ‘P.O.’ became far too common in the 2010s, we are seeing a revival of top-tier pitchers that are also impact bats at the lower levels of the game. There’s one explanation for that and it’s Shohei Ohtani who has proven to the baseball world that it is possible to be both a dominant pitcher and hitter. We’ve already seen a couple Division-I players do so last year with Jac ‘Jac-Tani’ Caglianone (Florida) and Nolan ‘Cowboy Ohtani’ McLean (Oklahoma State).
Certainly it is unrealistic to expect another unicorn-type player like Ohtani to emerge. But the fact is that his presence has provided excitement for young ballplayers as well as a glimmer of hope that they can be the next great thing.
Now zoom out for a moment, and let’s focus on one player from Long Island that had a tremendous impact on his team on both sides of the ball.
Van Johnson had a great season for 5 Star National NY Terry – compiling a 5-2 record, 1.97 ERA and 1.30 WHIP over 6 games started on the mound. More recently, he’s seen an uptick in velocity and has been up to 83 MPH. At the plate, Van batted .402 with a .519 OBP, 1.099 OPS and 28 RBIs and 20 runs scored over 81 plate appearances.
The sophomore plays for a talented Miller Place team. Although it has not officially been decided whether he makes the varsity club, he should be a big contributor before too long.
Van Johnson (Miller Place 2027) pic.twitter.com/tsEftq1ddG
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) February 24, 2025
His summer coach, Heath Terry, had the following to say:
“Van is a true leader. He has the ability to lead with his words and also to lead with his performance on the field. He can carry his teammates on his back whether it’s at the plate or on the mound. He loves competition and is always asking for the ball in big games. The future is very bright for Van, and with his work ethic it will be amazing to see what is in store for him.”
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 other sports?
Baseball has always been my first sport since I started playing sports. I play football in the fall and played basketball this winter.
Who are some people who have had a positive impact on your career?
My parents. I owe it all to them with the time and energy that they put into everything for me. Driving me to tournaments and practices, allowing me to play travel ball and to see special coaches. I wouldn’t be able to play if it wasn’t for them.
Do you work with any private instructors?
I work with Tyler Badamo at Badamo Pitching Instruction. I do lifting through Dom Persichilli at Perch Performance.
What has been your most thrilling moment on a baseball field?
When I hit a walk off grand slam in 12U. Also two summers ago, we beat a top team in our region in the semifinals in extra innings in Diamond Nation.
What were your goals for this offseason?
My goals were to get stronger and more explosive, which I’ve been working towards with Perch Performance.
What are your goals for 2025?
I want to be more confident and win as many games as possible with my school and travel teams. Miller Place is going to make a run this year. I also want to hit more than 3 home runs this year.
Favorite players in Major League Baseball?
Bryce Harper because he has such a cool story, going from the league’s most hated, to one of the most liked. Also has the sweetest swing in the last 20 years. Paul Skenes because it is still very early, but he’s going to be one of the greatest pitchers ever in my opinion. It’s so cool watching him pitch. There aren’t many pitchers who throw 102, especially in the 5th or 6th inning.
Favorite app on your phone?
Favorite restaurant on Long Island?
Tellers in Islip, best steak I have ever eaten.
How would you describe your experience with 5 Star?
It has been nothing short of amazing. I started when I was 14 with them and it’s the best decision I made. It’s an honor to be coached by Coach Brown and Terry, who have helped expand my knowledge and skill for the game. I love my teammates. We have a bond that I feel that not a lot of teams have, which I think is why we have been so successful. This year is going to be really fun for all of us.
Best baseball trip you’ve been on?
Cooperstown, but more recently, we went to Sandusky, Ohio last year. The field were beautiful, we’d finish our games and go to Cedar Point Amusement Park, and we won the whole thing.
Favorite TV show or movie?
Movie: Step Brothers
TV Show: The Office
Any pregame superstitions?
I don’t eat anything 2 hours before my games, only in between if I’m playing 2 that day.
Walkup song for 2025?
Kick in the Door by Biggie Smalls
Favorite vacation spot?
Cancun
Dream Car?
Lamborghini Urus
