Ryan Steel
Even After Graduating Impactful Class in 2020, Harborfields Still Appears Prime for Playoff Run
Entering 2020, Harborfields was in as good of shape as any team in Class A. They were loaded with top-tier talent at key positions including a loaded pitching staff. After three straight seasons of first-round postseason exits, they appeared like a safe bet to change that. The cancellation of the high school season did not do them any favors, especially graduating catcher Anthony Madigan, RHP Jack Greco and LHP Corey Phelan. The latter is now a professional pitcher in the Philadelphia Phillies system after signing in August. The signing did not just catch me by surprise, but his own head coach. “It took me by surprise as well, in a good sense,” said Casey Sturm. “He came so far in just a few years since he got to us in high school. He looked great going into last season b...
Fueled by Painful Playoff Ending and a Strong Young Core, Harborfields Ready to Make Noise
Making the playoffs with three starting freshman is no small task for any team. That doesn’t mean it can’t have a painful ending, though. Just ask Harborfields Head Coach Casey Sturm, who watched his young team reach the postseason with a .500 record. They led 3-2 in the 7th inning with ace Jack Greco on the hill to slam the door. Robert Iadanza, however, had other plans. He hit a walk-off, two-strike grand slam to cap the 6-3 comeback victory for East Islip to end Harborfields’ season. “It was a painful way to go out,” said Sturm. “But I think that’s what’s motivating this group, it’s hard to replace 11 seniors, but their contribution to the program will help guide the up-and-coming crop of players,” he added. Leading the pack is...
