(Editor’s Note: This is the final installment of the Up Next Series in which we highlight the top underclassmen on Long Island. Special thanks to Ken Kortright State Farm for sponsoring this year’s series.)
Top outfielder velocities:
Will Hutchinson (Calhoun 2027) 82 MPH
Fionn Ryan (Garden City 2027) 82 MPH
Chris Morrissey (Lynbrook 2028) 81 MPH
Jake Burlock (JFK 2027) 80 MPH
Michael Sica (Division 2026) 80 MPH pic.twitter.com/xUNVrGYZ2K— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) January 19, 2026
Chris Morrissey got the call to varsity as a freshman at Lynbrook HS last season. While he didn’t make a big impact he was able to get acclimated and get his feet wet. This summer, he was really shined for MVP South Shore as he compiled a 1.90 ERA over 80 innings with 5 wins, 1.30 WHIP while holding opposing batters to a .193 average. He was named to three All-Tournament teams.
His summer coach, Nick Fiore, had the following to say:
Chris Morrissey (Lynbrook 2028) pic.twitter.com/tTF6BCrlmT
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) March 23, 2026
“Christopher Morrissey is a highly competitive right-handed pitcher who thrives when the stakes are the highest. Standing at 6’0 with a projectable frame, he features a mid 80s fastball and complements it with a full arsenal including a changeup, slider and curveball. Morrissey attacks hitters with confidence, shows a strong feel for pitching and consistently competes in the strike zone. What separates him is his mentality – he wants the ball in the biggest moments and embraces the challenge of going up against the best competition. His presence on the mound, combined with his drive to compete and improve makes him a reliable arm who teammates trust and coaches can lean on when the games on the line. Having both Morrissey and Grzelaczyk at the front of the rotation is a luxury not many summer teams have, giving the staff a dominant 1-2 punch capable of matching up with any lineup they face.”
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?
Technically for me, I always wanted to play basketball. I played travel basketball and school basketball until high school. Baseball is my number 1 now. I also really like to fish.
Who are some people who have had a positive impact on your career?
Definitely God, my parents and, of course, my coaches. Nick Fiore of MVP South Shore is awesome, he cares so much about his players on-and-off the field. Also my great teammates from South Shore and Lynbrook coach Jon Zaccaro.
Do you take private lessons from any instructors?
Yes I work with Keith Couch, he was once a great pitcher. I always look forward to working with him.
How have you enjoyed your time with MVP South Shore?
Nothing short of awesome. I love my teammates and coaches – everyone on my team is awesome. We get along very well. Like I said, Coach Nick Fiore and the rest of the coaches there are great.
Who are your favorite athletes?
Josh Hamilton’s swing was out of this world. I looked up to him; especially as a lefty batter.
What has been your most thrilling moment on a baseball field?
Game-tying home run in the fall of 2024. First big field, wood-bat home run and it was to tie the game in the 6th inning.
What did you want to work on this offseason?
Definitely my change up and gaining weight.
Goals for 2026?
Win an award on varsity. Hit 90 MPH and have better stats than last summer.
Favorite musical artist?
Zach Top
Favorite app on your phone?
Spotify
Favorite restaurant on Long Island?
Gino’s of Lynbrook.
Favorite TV show or movie?
The Patriot
Favorite vacation spot?
Upstate New York
Dream Car?
Any 1980s F-150