School: Shrewsbury High School (SHS)
Sport: Baseball
Class: 2015
Coach: Lee Diamantopoulos
Notable Stats: 2 – 1 in his first 3 starts of 2015, with 17 K’s and a 1.86 ERA.
By Ryan Massad, Contributing Writer
What are your earliest baseball-related memories?
“My earliest baseball memories are from when I was 5 or 6, when we would spend practice learning to field a ground ball using the ‘alligator technique.’”
Which family member influenced you to stick with baseball and succeed at it?
“My dad has been the most influential when it comes to baseball. He coached just about every team I was on when I was growing up, and he made it fun. Now he’s there at every game supporting me and helping me improve.”
What pitches do you throw, and which do you consider your best?
“I throw a fastball, curveball, and changeup. I have the most confidence in my fastball because that’s the pitch I feel I have the most control over.”
Which single game has been the most special of your young career?
“My favorite game is either when we beat St. Peter Marian [Junior-Senior High School] when they were ranked number one, or our recent win against Algonquin [Regional High School], where we came back, and were able to turn a double play for the win.”
Your pitching coach, Dean Diamantopoulos, used to pitch for the Colonials himself. What has it been like working with him?
“Working with coach Dean has been awesome. He is really organized, so we know what to expect coming into practices. That makes it easier for us to learn and become better pitchers. He knows how to prepare us mentally and physically for each game.”
What is your favorite class in school, and why?
“My favorite class in school is any class that has to do with science, because I find that to be the most interesting.”
Have you decided on a college yet, and will you be playing baseball at that level?
“I will going to Suffolk University next year, and will be playing baseball.”
What is your favorite MLB team and player?
“My favorite team is the Red Sox, and my favorite player is Mookie Betts.”
What is your favorite type of music, and artist in that genre?
“I listen to everything but don’t have a favorite artist.”
What kind of legacy do you hope to leave behind at SHS?
“I hope that I am remembered as someone who led by example.”
