(Editors Note: This is the fifth installment of the 2025 Up Next Series in which we highlight the top underclassmen on Long Island. Previously, we highlighted Jack Mulligan, Alex Pagano, Quincy Gibbs, Michael Cotto and Charlie Edwards. Special thanks to Ken Kortright State Farm Agency for sponsoring this year’s series.)
Evan Picciano (Pat-Med 2029) pic.twitter.com/0t4RNgcGFm
Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) December 1, 2025
In the history of Patchogue-Medford HS – which has featured some extremely high-end players in recent history, there has never been an 8th grader that has played as much as Evan Picciano did this past season.
Think about that – they have a current big leaguer with 11 years of experience, another that played for Team USA, and a first round pick just since 2009. Evan Picciano is the one that played in 18 games, compiled 60 plate appearances and notched 9 innings on the mound.
“We brought him up to help on the mound and play defense,” said long time head coach Anthony Frascogna. “He wound up getting a hit every chance he got to hit so we kept him in the lineup.”
Incredibly, Picciano notched a .327 AVG with .417 OBP and .821 OPS as a middle schooler on varsity in League I. He initially started in left field and before long, he was the everyday shortstop and Jayden Stroman was shifted to center field.
To those that watched him the previous season, it did not come as a surprise.
Picciano was named to 9 PG All-Tournament teams in 2024 while playing for MVP and Canes Tri-State. Perfect Game acknowledged his efforts by naming him second team All-American. This past summer, he batted .424 with a .593 OBP and 1.101 OPS.
His father, Phil, is a 2001 graduate of Longwood HS and played at Briarcliffe CC which was the 7th ranked Div-I Junior College in the country at the time.
I had a chance to speak with Evan and here’s what he had to say…
Was baseball always your No. 1 sport? Do you play any other sports?
Yes, baseball has always been my top sport. I also play football for school in the fall.
Any family members that played college or pro sports?
My dad played baseball in college.
What was it like playing on varsity as an 8th grader?
Playing varsity as an eighth grader was definitely hard and mentally challenging, knowing I was the youngest I knew I had to work extra hard and come in with a good attitude everyday. All the coaches made me feel comfortable and I grew good relationships with the seniors who definitely took me under their wings during the season.
What has been your most thrilling moment on a baseball field?
My most thrilling moment on the baseball field was playing behind Jayden Stroman when all of those Major League scouts were in attendance.
Who are your favorite professional athletes?
My favorite professional athletes are Aaron Judge because I’m a huge Yankee fan but I also love watching Javier Baez because I love the way he plays the field.
What are you looking to work on this offseason?
This offseason I’m working on my speed and getting bigger and stronger, and also working on my mechanics in the field.
Do you work with any private instructors?
No, I’m usually just working with my dad or when I go to the gym I go with my older cousin.
Best baseball trip you’ve been on?
The best baseball trip I’ve been on was over the summer when I went up to Cortland for a tournament. They had some pretty nice fields with good views behind it.
Goals for 2026?
My goals for 2026 is to help my team go to the playoffs and receive All-League or All-County as a freshman.
Pat-Med has had a tremendous track record in recent years with getting players to the next level. Does that motivated you to become the next one?
Yes I think about it everyday. Watching Josh Knoth and playing with Jayden Stroman for a season showed me what it takes to get to the next level.
Favorite app on your phone?
TikTok or Instagram
Favorite musical artist?
Drake
Favorite restaurant on Long Island?
Tiesto’s in Blue Point
Favorite TV Show?
All-American
Favorite Vacation Spot?
Aruba
Dream Car?
BMW M4 or Ferrari SF90 Spider