(Editor’s Note: This is the 20th 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, Van Johnson & SJ Garneau. You can read them all by clicking here. Special thanks to Ken Kortright State Farm Agency for sponsoring this year’s series.)
Connor Bletsch (John Glenn 2027) displaying his raw power pic.twitter.com/EsVeOUPTpf
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) March 10, 2025
In what was a difficult season for John Glenn HS in 2024, there was a silver lining – and that was the performance of freshman Connor Bletsch.
Playing corner infield and pitching, he was a standout performance and continued that into the summer playing for MVP Baseball. He batted .329 over 91 at bats with 2 HRs, 20 RBIs and only 8 strikeouts. On the mound, he led the team with 37.1 IP and was second with 31 Ks Defensively, he played third and first base while committing just 4 errors.
His school ball coach, Billy Riedel, had the following to say:
“He’s a great team guy and an absolute gamer. He is a strong, physical player that can drive a ball out to all fields. He is true corner infielder with a plus arm. He has the ability to control the game on the mound with a plus fastball and command of his change up and a plus curveball. He’s a great leader, hard worker and he is a catalyst in any lineup. He has tremendous upside and power already, going to be an exciting player in the next few years.”
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?
Yes, baseball was always my first sport. I also play basketball and golf.
Who are some people that have had a positive impact on your career?
My high school coach, Billy Riedel, my uncle, MVP owner Pete Kritikos, and my old travel ball coach, Coach Ruisi.
Do you take private lessons from any instructors?
I used to but haven’t in a few years.
What has been the most thrilling moment on a baseball field?
My first high school, varsity and big field home run.
Who are your favorite players in Major League Baseball and why?
Francisco Lindor became of what he has been able to do for the Mets franchise.
What were you looking to work on this offseason?
I focused on getting a new and consistent swing as well as increasing my power (pitching velo, exit velo).
What are your goals for 2025?
Be named All-League for the 2nd year in a row, make the All-County team, reach 85-87 MPH on the bump, hit over 6 HRs, help my MVP team win a few tournaments and have a winning record.
How have you enjoyed your time with MVP?
I’ve loved my time with MVP. Coach Pete is incredible and I really feel like the future of my baseball career is safe with him by my side.
Any pregame superstitions?
No superstitions, just make sure to stretch.
Favorite restaurant on Long Island?
Miko Japanese in Elwood.
Favorite app on your phone?
Instagram or Snapchat
Favorite musical artist?
Travis Scott
Favorite movie?
Cars 2
Favorite vacation spot?
Any Caribbean island or cruise ship
What was the best baseball trip you’ve been on?
Georgia National Championship, June 2024
