Recca's Fall Ball Notebook Pt. 2: Saint Joseph's

The Saint Joseph’s Hawks 2023 season was both historic and heart-wrenching. Led by long-time Head Coach Fritz Hamburg, the Hawks have clearly turned a corner as a program with the right ingredients for sustainable success. Not only did the Joe’s experience its third consecutive winning season in 2023, Coach Hamburg led the team to its first-ever Atlantic 10 regular season championship. Atlantic 10 coaches picked Hamburg for 2023 A10 coach of the year, and he was further honored by the Mid-Atlantic Scouts Association as their selection for 2023 coach of the year. The program has gradually developed into a yearly conference title contender and it looks like the 2024 season will continue that trend. On top of the collegiate success, the team is finding and producing pro-level talent at an expanding rate. Catcher Andrew Cossetti was a 2022 11th-round pick by the Twins, while outfielder Brett Callahan was a 13th-round pick last July; those two draft picks are the start of a trend for the Hawks. After seeing Joe’s this fall on ‘Scout Day,’ I can safely say that more draft selections are on the table for both the 2024 and 2025 drafts.

*Saint Joseph’s Head Baseball Coach Fritz Hamburg (center) accepts the award for 2023 Coach of the Year by the Mid-Atlantic Scouts Association; November, 2023.

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Conference: Atlantic 10

2023 Record: 28-24 | A10 Regular Season Champions

Head Coach: Fritz Hamburg | 16th year

Top Prospect ‘24 Draft: Ryan Cesarini, OF

Top Prospect ‘25 Draft: Ryan Weingartner, SS

It wasn’t the start or finish Coach Hamburg and his team were hoping for. The 2023 Hawks struggled out of the gate with a 1-7 start, and after a mid-April loss to Saint Louis, the team was staring at a 12-18 record. Following that loss, Joe’s went on an eight-game win streak and closed out the regular with an improbable 15-3-1 (yes, there was a tie) run that won them the A10 regular season crown. Unfortunately, the team was bounced from the tournament after three games, which included an 8-23 loss to Saint Louis and finally a 10-15 loss to Dayton. Saint Louis and Dayton were able to capitalize on Joe’s inconsistent pitching staff, which was an area of concern for the majority of the 2023 season. Coach Hamburg brought in accomplished Army pitching coach Jeremy Hileman to help bolster things on that side of the ball, and the staff looks improved on paper. While pitching, especially the relief corps, will be the biggest question mark for the 2024 team, Joe’s will also need to restructure their lineup and fill some roles offensively after a few notable departures.

The Hawks figure to have an experienced and productive offense, with five returnees who either logged an OBP over .400 or slugged double-digit homers in 2023. However, Joe’s will be losing a healthy dose of power after the departures of OF Brett Callahan (Tigers), INF Nate Thomas, and SS Luca Trigiani (now with William & Mary), all of whom recorded an ISO above .220 while combining for 28 long balls last spring. After getting an up close and personal view during St. Joseph’s scout day, several hitters looked equipped to replace that lost production. Because it was scout day, most of the action was focused on draft-eligible players, but a quality group of underclassmen made strong impressions as well. Overall, the offense for Coach Hamburg’s group looks strong on paper and will be a driving force toward a potential repeat performance as A10 regular season champs.

THE THREE RYANS

Ryan Cesarini

THE THREE RYANS

Ryan Picollo

THE THREE RYANS

Ryan Weingartner

The Hawks' offense will be driven by a trio of Ryans, outfielders Ryan Cesarini and Ryan Picollo, as well as shortstop Ryan Weingartner. This triumvirate combined for 68 extra-base hits and 28 homers last spring, and I think they’re a good bet to surpass those totals in 2024. Let’s start with Ryan Cesarini. The junior from Archibald, PA, led the A10 conference in batting last season (.392) and finished third in OPS (1.088). He enters 2024 as the Hawks’ top draft prospect thanks to a strong track record of performance and impressive tools. Cesarini doesn’t offer much in the way of physical projection, listed at 5’10-205 with a stocky, filled-out frame. Jared Dupere, a 13th-round draft pick out of Northeastern by the Giants in 2021, is a solid body comp for Cesarini, but Cesarini has surprising athleticism and quick actions on the diamond. On scout day, Cesarini showed phenomenal speed with a 60-yard dash time just above 6.40 and home-to-first times in the 4.10-4.20 range. It’s unusual to see plus-level speed from a player with this kind of body; Dupere certainly didn’t display that kind of quickness. Perhaps a better physical comparison for Cesarini (and an admittedly unfair one) is Blue Jays outfielder Daulton Varsho.

At the plate, the lefty-hitting Cesarini has a crouched, compact stance with his hands tucked in tightly behind his helmet. Instead of a traditional stride, he rotates his front knee inward and points the toe of his foot directly into the ground before dropping back down and rotating swiftly into contact. He has quick, adjustable hands and plenty of bat speed to impact the ball on contact. It’s not the most athletic-looking swing, and it’s definitely unorthodox, but Cesarini has a special feel for making contact, which is aided by above-average plate discipline. Cesarini’s raw power teeters right near the above-average to-average line. He’s capable of turning on balls from the belt down for home run contact, which he showcased on a no-doubt blast during a simulated game. I’ll need additional looks before I’m able to make an honest evaluation of his defensive ability. You’d think Cesarini would be a capable centerfielder, given his speed and athleticism, but he split time between left field and DH last spring and only played the corners this summer in the NECBL. We’ll see how he’s deployed moving forward, but as of now, Cesarini has the potential to be a mid-to-late day two draft pick (rounds 6-10) based on what I’ve seen, though I wouldn’t be surprised if he were popped early on day three like Brett Callahan was last July.

Joining Cesarini in the outfield is senior Ryan Picollo, whose 6’4-225 frame stands as a stark contrast to Cesarini's. Picollo has a sturdy, rangy build with a good mixture of athleticism and strength. Despite solid power production last spring (10 HR, .227 ISO), Picollo had a difficult time getting the bat on the ball, as he struck out 55 times in 203 plate appearances. Picollo’s final line of .238/.292/.465 is emblematic of his issues maintaining a consistent approach. When Picollo avoids chasing pitches out of the zone and stays short to the ball, there’s big-time thump and above-average power to his pull side. While Picollo isn’t a burner, he’ll show solid average speed that is more noticeable on the defensive side of the ball. He’s a steady defender with quality arm strength that makes him a dependable option in right field.  Picollo showed both the good and the ugly during scout day, with a rocket line drive double to left field but also in-zone whiffs on fastballs. While he may not clear up the rough edges of his game, Picollo possesses the tools and experience to take a step forward and settle in as a much-needed offensive catalyst for the Hawks in 2024. Finally, here’s a fun fact about Picollo: his father, JJ Picollo, oversees baseball operations for the Kansas City Royals as executive vice president and general manager.

The final Ryan set to lead the offense is quite likely the most important. Ryan Weingartner quickly secured the starting second base job during his freshman year and ended the 2024 campaign with a .323/.401/.531 line, which included 10 homers and 17 stolen bases. Not only will Coach Hamburg and company ask Weingartner to build on that breakout debut offensively, but they’ll also ask him to hop over to the other side of the second base bag to hold down shortstop. Weingartner looked the part at short during my initial look, but I’ll need to see how things play out at full game speed this spring to determine his long-term outlook.

An A10 All-Rookie team selection, Weingartner is far from imposing at the plate with a wiry, 5’11-185 build, but he more than makes up for it with a quick bat, uphill swing path, and a “passive-aggressive” approach. He showed an easy, confident swing during BP and had two hard-hit balls during the simulated game. A follow-up performance this spring and summer (he’s playing for the Harwich Mariners on the Cape) could vault him into the mid-day two conversation for the 2025 draft.

Looking beyond the Ryan’s, the Hawks have a couple more promising power options in corner infielder Owen Petrich and catcher Carter Jagiela. Petrich is a transfer portal addition from Delaware where he received minimal playing time the past two years. The 6’2-215 Petrich is a physical corner bat who played third base on scout day. At the plate, Petrich displayed above-average pop from the right side but struggled to handle spin during this brief look. He is highly capable of punishing mistakes, which he demonstrated by hitting multiple hard-hit balls, including the opposite-field homer seen in the clip below. Meanwhile, Jagiela is entering his sophomore year, and his size (6’4-220) and physicality immediately stand out. Jagiela has plus-level power to his pull side with an uphill swing path. He’ll need to iron out some things behind the plate, but he has plenty of arm strength for the catcher position. Jagiela should have plenty of time to hone his craft, as his likely role will be as a backup to senior Justin Igoe. Igoe played in only seven games as an underclassman, but he made up for lost time in 2023 as the full-time starter, finishing the year with a respectable .304/.411/.432 line. With a shorter, stout build, Igoe is a patient hitter with average power and an up-the-middle approach. He only hit three homers last year, but he adds length to the lineup and racks up quality at-bats. Igoe gets the job done behind the plate, though his arm is fringy, which led to an 85% success rate for base stealers last season.

Petrich Packs A

Punch

Delaware transfer Owen Petrich will look to revitalize St. Joseph’s power production in 2024.

Because my viewing came on scout day, the majority of the action involved draft-eligible players, so it was difficult to get a feel for the Hawks class of freshmen. With that said, outfielders Darius Adkins and Joey Gale are intriguing athletes, while middle infielder Tim Dickinson was a consistent performer at Malvern Prep, one of the top high school programs in the state of Pennsylvania. Playing time is likely to be tough to come by in 2024 for this crop of newcomers, but Coach Hamburg and his staff have a knack for getting timely production from their freshmen when needed.

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On paper, Coach Hamburg has plenty of options to fill out his weekend rotation. RHP Domenic Picone, RHP Will McCausland, and LHP Ryan DeSanto led the Hawks in starts and innings pitched a year ago, and all three will return in 2024. McCausland and DeSanto were each selected for the A10 All-Rookie Team and remained sharp over the summer in the New England Collegiate Baseball League and the Valley League, respectively. Neither pitched on scout day, but I did see DeSanto last fall and tabbed him as an under-the-radar draft prospect for 2025. The sophomore duo won’t light up radar guns (upper 80s/low 90s in ‘23), but they have performed in games, and both have uniquely interesting traits under the surface when taking a peak at their trackman data. McCausland’s fastball has swing-and-miss traits thanks to a low vertical approach angle, a low release height, and good extension in his delivery. He also has a trio of decent secondary options that he can land for strikes consistently, with the slider showing the most potential of the bunch. DeSanto is about as funky as it gets, with a crossfire finish to his delivery and an extreme over-the-top arm slot. He gets elite IVB on his high spin fastball, which gets on hitters in a hurry with his size and deception. DeSanto will flash a bat-missing curve with 12-6 action and an intriguing changeup with good arm-side fade. Picone was also pitching as Hawk for the first time in 2023 after spending the previous three years at Rhode Island. He’s one of the smaller pitchers you’ll see at the D1 level, standing in at 5’8-180, but he had a respectable 4.50 ERA across 70 innings last spring. His fastball sits in the 88-92 range and plays well up in the strike zone, while his mid-80s cutter/slider hybrid is his best putaway offering.

Junior RHP Matt McShane is another arm that could be a starting option for Coach Hamburg. McShane thrived (2.40 ERA) as a multi-inning reliever as a freshman, but his stuff was down when I saw him last fall. That carried over to the spring, and his performance (5.46 ERA, 4.9 K/9, 10.9 H/9) took a step back as a result. McShane was much better (19.1 IP, 1.40 ERA, 11.6 K/9) with Bourne on the Cape this summer, and the average velocity on his fastball (92-93 MPH) and both breaking balls increased significantly compared to the spring.

McShane was the first pitcher to take the mound on scout day but didn’t face live hitters. The fastball was lively in the 90-92 range, coming from a high slot and a good, flat angle. McShane complimented the fastball with a slider that sat around 82 MPH, an upper-70s curveball, and what appeared to be a low-80s changeup. McShane threw some above-average sliders with late gyro-movement that he commanded better to his glove side. McShane did a really good of tunneling the fastball and slider, increasing the effectiveness of each pitch. He had trouble getting a consistent feel for the curve and changeup, though the curve did flash some sharp vertical break. Given McShane’s build at 6’3-215, his ability to spin multiple breaking balls, and his history of pitching multiple innings at a time, McShane has some traits to serve him in a weekend starter role. However, there’s some effort during his release, and there have been issues maintaining the quality of his stuff, which could indicate a late-inning relief role in the future. At his best, McShane appears to be the team's top draft prospect for 2024, but we’ll need to see how he holds up this spring.

Junior RHP Luke Gabrysh is a wild card for this Joe’s pitching staff. Standing at a lean and projectable 6’3-200, Gabrysh possesses the size and arsenal of a quality starting option. However, his effectiveness has been limited as he’s struggled to throw strikes, evident in his elevated walk rate of 20.4% through 27.1 career innings. On scout day, Gabrysh showcased impressive velocity, sitting consistently at 92-94 with his fastball and touching 95 MPH once. His go-to secondary was a 78-82 MPH slider, boasting remarkable raw spin (2,700+ RPM) and horizontal movement. Additionally, his mid-80s changeup showed plenty of promise with good arm-side movement and depth. Gabrysh allowed hard contact on multiple belt-high fastballs over the middle as he struggled to consistently command the pitch in the zone. The command of his secondaries appeared superior to his fastball command in this brief appearance.  Overall, it’s one of the better three-pitch mixes on the Hawks staff in terms of raw stuff, but the ability to execute remains an open question. Regardless, Gabrysh provides some high-upside depth for the rotation with the kind of loud stuff you could envision closing out games. If things click for Garbrysh this spring, he’d make for a dynamic weapon down the stretch for St. Joseph’s and would likely fetch draft interest on day 3.

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While the weekend rotation boasts a surplus of seasoned arms, the bullpen is marked by uncertainty. A notable portion of the relievers returning from last spring finished the year with ERAs north of 9.00. Gabrysh certainly has the raw ability to help bolster the pen if that’s where he ends up, and that’s also true for righty Alec Rodriguez, who is back as a grad student. Rodriguez looked poised for a breakout season last spring but was unable to fill the zone enough to be a reliable option. He’s a good athlete with a high-effort delivery and a slingy arm action that can be difficult to repeat. Rodriguez’s heater has a lot of movement with both riding and running life, which may actually be a contributing factor to his control issues. The velocity on his fastball remained solid as he averaged 92 MPH (max 95) and touched 94 MPH multiple times. His best pitch is a wipeout slider in the low 80s that generates well above-average whiff rates. Rodriguez had a decent changeup last spring that he used against lefty batters, and I thought I saw a couple of cutters at 87 MPH during this outing, which I believe would be a new pitch. As with Garbrysh, there’s no doubt Rodriguez possesses the repertoire to be a high-leverage relief option, but a significant improvement to his 2023 walk rate (18.7%) is required. RHP Colin Yablonski is a grad transfer from Coastal Carolina who sat 90-92 MPH on scout day with an above-average curveball in the upper 70s. He’s shown a little more velocity in the past, so he could just be warming up. Yet another grad year righty is Mike Picollo, who was an unsigned 33rd-round draft pick by the Mets in 2018 and is also the older brother of Ryan Picollo. He’s a low/side slot righty with a mid-to-upper 80s fastball and a late-breaking slider that should be tough on right-handed bats. He hasn’t had much success at the college level, but he did a great job repeating his funky delivery on scout day.  Senior David Owsik displayed two quality secondaries, a 78-79 MPH sweeper and an 80 MPH changeup, complementing an 88 MPH fastball. While I didn’t see freshman RHP Luke Parise take the mound, his development is worth tracking. Listed as both a pitcher and catcher, Parise is a good athlete who receives high praise for his competitiveness and makeup.

Undoubtedly, the bullpen stands as a potential Achilles' heel for St. Joseph's in 2024. However, the depth of diverse options and present arm talent suggest that a reversal of fortunes is on the table. All in all, Coach Hamburg’s club is well-equipped to secure a conference title and a trip to regionals in 2024.

Recca's Fall Ball Notebook: Pt. 1

Fall ball has all but wrapped up for college baseball programs across the nation. With the holiday season upon us, now feels like a perfect time to empty out my notebook after checking out some fall ball action. As the 2024 college baseball season looms, the anticipation surrounding St. John's, Iona, and Seton Hall is discernable. This in-depth analysis offers a revealing glimpse into the rosters, prospects, and dynamics shaping these three programs. From potential breakout pitchers like Ryan Reich leading Seton Hall to the emerging talents of Jimmy Keenan and Adam Agresti at St. John's and the observable transformation within Iona's squad under Coach Conor Burke, each team brings a unique narrative to the field. Join me as I uncover the strengths, challenges, and top prospects of these cold-weather baseball programs, setting the stage for what should be a highly competitive season on the diamond.

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Conference: Big East

2023 Record: 28-25 | 4th in conference

Head Coach: Mike Hampton | 5th year

Top Prospect ‘24 Draft: Xavier Kolhosser, RHP

Top Prospect ‘25 Draft: Jimmy Keenan, C

The lineup for the Johnnies is projected to be veteran-laden until you reach the catcher and first base positions. Expect sophomore Jimmy Keenan and freshman Adam Agresti to hold down those two spots. To maximize the impact of their powerful bats, these underclassmen are likely to rotate between catcher and first base this spring. Keenan solidified his place in the everyday lineup during the 2023 spring, receiving 126 plate appearances and leading the team in OPS (1.067). His strong debut continued into the summer in the Futures League, where he finished second overall in home runs (9). Keenan's prowess was on full display in a scrimmage against Iona, hitting two home runs with exit velocities of 111 MPH and 106 MPH, showcasing his plus, all-fields power. His quick load, long stride, and strong rotational swing result in good angle and loft, allowing him to drive the ball in the air. Beyond the homers, Keenan's deep fly balls to his pull side hint at even more power potential. While his performance against higher-velocity arms remains to be seen, his current skill set is undeniably impressive. Defensively, Keenan has more than enough arm strength to stick at catcher, although his transfers on throws can stand to improve. Despite his substantial size at 6'3-225, he exhibits commendable mobility both at catcher and first base. The program likely hasn't seen an impact bat of this caliber since Mike Antico was with the team. Keenan is poised to play a crucial role in 2024 and could emerge as one of the top offensive catchers for the 2025 draft.

here’s jimmy!

The St. John’s offense will be powered by their sophomore catcher Jimmy Keenan, a rising star in the Big East.

Not content with just one standout catcher, the Red Storm secured a significant addition to their roster with Adam Agresti, a prized recruit from Kennedy Catholic High School in New York. A towering figure at 6'3-230, Agresti mirrors Keenan's profile remarkably closely. Both catchers boast impressive size and physicality, accompanied by clear plus grades in raw power and arm strength. I felt Keenan exhibited looser athleticism compared with Agresti, but Agresti had the quieter and more efficient swing and cleaner throws out of the crouch. Agresti's plate presence is marked by a keen sense for the barrel, consistently scorching balls located throughout the strike zone. While he faced challenges with breaking balls, an aspect worth monitoring, Agresti's offensive tools showcase remarkable advancement for a freshman catcher. Looking ahead, Agresti has the potential to accumulate a lengthy three-year track record of in-game performance by the time the 2026 draft rolls along.

Complementing the power duo of Keenan and Agresti, St. John's features a trio of speedsters with up-the-middle pedigree. Junior Luke Orbon will transition from second base to shortstop, and he looked comfortable there during my two observations. Orbon displayed athletic, confident actions and executed multiple tough throws while on the run. Offensively, Orbon serves as a table-setter with above-average speed, maintaining an impressive career triple slash line of .335/.395/.436.

Junior outfielder Jackson Tucker shares a similar profile with Orbon, featuring borderline plus speed and a contact-driven approach. Tucker, who accumulated 42 stolen bases in the past two years, added another 30 swiped bags during this summer in the Northwoods League. While Tucker has experience in center field, he may predominantly occupy a corner spot to accommodate DII transfer Garrett Scavelli. Scavelli, a standout at Molloy College, compiled an impressive .357/.458/.562 line as the team's everyday centerfielder for the past three years. His exceptional .391 batting average in 2023 ranked 2nd in the East Coast Conference. Demonstrating outstanding coverage in centerfield and 70-grade speed with a 4.07 home-to-first time, Scavelli brings an exciting toolset and a veteran presence to the lineup. Expect Orbon, Tucker, and Scavelli to reach base at a high rate and create havoc on the bases for opposing defenses. With this trio of seasoned players and the powerful duo behind the dish, St. John's has cultivated an impressive combination of talent and depth at crucial positions.

After taking in two days of scrimmages, it became clear to me that the strength of this St. John’s roster is on the offensive side of the ball. I got a good look at several promising arms this fall, but the lack of experience and depth on the pitching side is unmistakable. This is especially true when projecting the weekend rotation for the spring, the success of which is going to be placed in the hands of talented but relatively unproven options. Xavier Kolhosser is a prime example of that phenomenon. A redshirt sophomore, Kolhosser has the goods to be a Friday night stud and rotation anchor. Listed at 6’5-190, Kolhosser was a revelation last spring, pitching to a 2.56 ERA across nine starts (31.2 IP). After missing his freshman season in 2022 recovering from Tommy John surgery, St. John’s was understandably cautious with Kolhosser, which may explain why he made just three appearances (11 IP) after March. The spectacular results in that 31.2-inning sample certainly inspire confidence for the 2024 season, as did his outing against Iona this fall.

The first thing you’ll notice about Kolhosser is how big and lean he is. The body has great length with long limbs and a projectable pitcher’s frame. Watching him throw a bit prior to the start of the game, I was impressed by how low-effort his actions were; everything looked loose and athletic. That carried over to game action, where Kolhosser’s looseness was on display with quick arm speed and a clean, repeatable delivery. Kolhosser attacks hitters from a high release point, which, combined with above-average extension in his delivery, makes for an uncomfortable at-bat. The fastball has unique characteristics with excellent carry through the zone from that high release point, giving hitters the perception that he’s throwing much harder than the 87-90 MPH velo range during this three-inning outing. While he didn’t miss many bats with this fastball, Kolhosser threw an exceptional amount of strikes (83% strikes) with his heater, five of which were called strikes. Kolhosser used a full four-pitch mix that included an 81 MPH slider, a slow curve in the 73-74 MPH range, and a 79-80 MPH changeup. There wasn’t a true standout pitch among the four, but Kolhosser commanded each offering well, stole strikes, and limited hard contact. Here’s a pitch breakdown I created following Kolhosser’s start.

As you can see, Kolhosser didn't show much fastball velocity (88.7 average), and that lines up with what we saw last spring. However, he's reportedly been up to 94 this fall and has shown 91+ MPH velo during starts in the past. Looking at the secondaries, the slider appears to be a new pitch. He only threw it four times, but all four were strikes, and he dotted one back door to a lefty for a backwards K. Clearly there are attractive elements here and given the projectable body and low-effort mechanics, it is highly likely that there's more gas left in the tank. With further growth and good health, Kolhosser could garner day two draft interest.

St. John's utilized the transfer portal to bring lefty Evan Chaffee back to his New York roots after his freshman year with Alabama, where he didn't see any game action. During my fall look, Chaffee stood out with his pitchability and feel for two quality secondaries. At 6’2-185, he offers significant projection, and I like how the arm works during his delivery. Chaffee's fastball was 87-89 MPH in his first inning of action, dipping slightly into the 86-88 MPH range for innings two and three. The fastball displayed sinker shape and flashed some good arm side run. For Chaffee to become a legitimate draft prospect in 2025, improvements in fastball command and velocity are essential. Nevertheless, his ability to execute his secondary pitches and keep hitters off balance is a current strength. His curveball and changeup, both in the 76-79 MPH range, exhibit distinct qualities. The curve showcases two-plane movement (2-7 or 2-8 shape) and proved a solid-average pitch, while the changeup, Chaffee's standout, flashed above-average grades. It displayed late arm side movement, with Chaffee effectively maintaining fastball arm speed. Anticipate Chaffee contributing to the weekend rotation, gaining valuable innings and game experience, crucial for someone with his limited game experience. 2024 promises to be a pivotal test for Chaffee, making him an arm worth monitoring in the months ahead.

Two additional contenders for the weekend rotation include lefty  Joe Mascio and righty Mario Pesca. Mascio, a pitchability lefty, emerged as a reliable option last spring, leading the team in games started and innings pitched as a sophomore with a respectable 4.68 ERA. While not overpowering, Mascio's starting experience over a full season sets him apart from many on this staff. On the other hand, Mario Pesca, a 6’8-225 righty from the Bronx, is more of a "draft guy." Despite a challenging freshman season with a 6.65 ERA, Pesca's potential is considerable. While I didn’t get to see him this fall, I’m told his fastball sat in the 89-91 MPH fastball with a rapidly developing high-spin slider between 79-82 MPH. Pesca topped out at 94 MPH last spring, and the prospect of an eventual velocity boost is plausible. Pesca also threw a curveball and changeup last spring, both of which have some promise. The key for Pesca lies in refining his strike-throwing and sustaining the quality of his stuff throughout a game and the entire season. I can envision Pesca developing into a sinker-slider righty who leverages his size to induce groundball contact.

Beyond Agresti, several other freshmen showcased their talents during my two looks. Righties Brady Clark and TJ Winn may not have exhibited overwhelming velocity, but both presented themselves as potential building blocks for the team's future. Clark, standing at 6’3-205, offers an intriguing combination of size, funk, and deception in his delivery. Despite occasional repeatability issues, Clark demonstrated command with all three pitches. His fastball ranged from 84-86 MPH, topping out at 87 MPH. The slider displayed impressive sweeping movement in the mid-70s, and the changeup proved effective against left-handed hitters, occasionally flashing average. On the other hand, Winn, with a lean and lanky build, operates from a low, almost sidearm slot. His fastball, ranging from 84-86 MPH, showcased notable sinking action, complemented by a slurvy breaking ball with significant horizontal break. Both Clark and Winn seem poised to contribute immediately, offering diverse looks out of the bullpen.

Switching to the offensive front, Zaine Toneske left a lasting impression with a colossal home run during my initial look. Physically mature at 6’2-230, Toneske possesses the potential to be a valuable power bat off the bench in the near term. While addressing swing-and-miss concerns is crucial for his development, his raw power stands well above average. On the other hand, Jayder Raifstanger brings a more refined hitting approach. Sporting a line-drive stroke from the left side, Raifstanger showcases quick hands at the plate with at least solid-average bat speed. Primarily playing second base during the summer in the Futures League, Raifstanger’s tool set suggests he could handle multiple positions, providing St. John’s with some valuable flexibility on the defensive end.

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Conference: MAAC

2023 Record: 13-38 | 9th in conference

Head Coach: Conor Burle | 3rd year

Top Prospect ‘24 Draft: Michael Lorenzetti, RHP

Top Prospect ‘25 Draft: Josiah Ragsdale, OF

A palpable shift in energy resonates within this 2024 Gaels squad, marking a notable departure from their challenging past. My last encounter with Iona was in early March 2022 against Albany, and I won't sugarcoat it—the team was in disarray, finishing with a daunting 6-41 record. Head Coach Conor Burke navigated his inaugural year at the helm, and while 2023 posed its own set of difficulties (13-38), the team is undeniably on an upward trajectory. Burke has assembled a commendable coaching staff, and the talent on the current roster has undergone significant improvement in just two years. While there's still work to be done, the momentum suggests that, under Burke's guidance, Iona has the potential to emerge as a true contender in the MAAC in the near future.

Getting the start for Iona against St. John’s was righty Andrelys Payamps, a junior college transfer from Monroe College. Payamps possesses live stuff that promises to keep hitters on their toes this spring. His four-seam fastball consistently sat at 91 MPH, touching 93 early with riding action that induced whiffs. Additionally, Payamps spun several quality sliders with good depth at 80 MPH. While the quality of his arsenal isn't in question, Payamps will need to throw more strikes and maintain the quality of his arsenal over extended periods. Payamps seemed to hit a wall physically when some defensive miscues led to a long first inning, but to his credit, he rebounded after a brief respite between innings. Although the polish wasn't fully evident, there’s no question that Payamps has the raw stuff to go toe-to-toe with the other Friday night starters in the MAAC.

Payamps: Juco Bandit

Monroe College transfer Andrelys Payamps can rack up the whiffs in a hurry.

Iona's pitching staff features two towering sophomores in Michael Lorenzetti and Andrew Gaines, standing at an impressive 6’9-220 and 6'5-240, respectively. Lorenzetti, a draft-eligible sophomore, possesses a lanky and projectable build that hints at further physical and strength gains. Despite struggles with the consistency of his delivery, marked by some inherent violence, Lorenzetti compensates by getting good extension down the mound. He also has a deceptive arm action and release, which allows his stuff to play up when he’s in sync mechanically. Lorenzetti's fastball ranged from 88-91 MPH (he was up to 94 last spring) and displayed occasional riding and running action. For the secondary offerings, Lorenzetti utilized a slurve that flashed average in the 74-77 MPH range and a developing, below-average changeup in the low 80s. Lorenzetti's slurve has some further potential with its heavy two-plane movement from a tough angle. However, he had a tendency to alter his mechanics when throwing the breaker, which is something experienced hitters are going to exploit. Despite his current rawness, Lorenzetti exhibits promising traits for Iona's coaching staff to refine.

Mt. Lorenzetti

Michael Lorenzetti is a mountain on the mound at 6 feet 9 inches. The draft-eligible sophomore’s development will be vital for this Iona pitching staff.

In contrast, Andrew Gaines has a thicker, more filled-out frame. Gaines entered the game and went straight at hitters with a firm 91-92 MPH heater before settling into the 88-90 MPH range during his second inning of work. Gaines paired the fastball with a sweeping curve in the 73-75 range, which has some positive traits but will need further refinement. While there's noticeable effort in his operation, Gaines excels in spinning the baseball, and there are swing-and-miss elements to his fastball. Gaines is someone to watch in the months ahead, especially if he shows more control in his second year with the Gaels.

Closing out games for the Gaels, junior Matt Zguro is what I like to call a "slider monster." Zguro throws his 60-grade slider early and often to opposing hitters with good reason. In 2023, Zguro threw his slider over 55% of the time, leading to an excellent whiff rate slightly above 50%. His fastball operates in the upper 80s, and he exhibits less feel for locating it compared to his slider. If Zguro's fastball takes a step forward this spring, he stands poised to become one of the premier stoppers in the MAAC.

On the positional side, 4th-year shortstop Jayson Gonzalez had some hard-line drive contact and displayed a solid plate approach. With a lean, lanky build and athletic actions at shortstop, Gonzalez, a transfer from Maine, appears primed for an everyday role after limited playing time in recent years. Joining Gonzalez on the left side of the infield is sophomore Anthony Zollo. The last time I saw Zollo, he was playing with current Angels prospect Caden Dana at Don Bosco Prep. Zollo earned a spot on the MAAC All-Rookie team last spring with a .301/.373/.341 line over 194 plate appearances. Although lacking a standout tool presently, Zollo is a reliable defender at the hot corner and consistently puts the ball in play.

Another notable sophomore emerging during the scrimmage was outfielder Josiah Ragsdale. Battling through the harsh sun in right field, Ragsdale tracked the ball well, looking smooth in the process. He’s a solid athlete with some length to the frame and physical projection remaining. While I wasn’t able to get a home-to-first time, Ragsdale has at least solid-average speed, and that might be selling him short. He has some sneaky pop from the left side, but his plate approach seemed geared towards a quick, slappy swing that enables him to hit line drives from pole to pole. With a freshman-year batting line of .282/.391/.459, expect Ragsdale to make significant strides in his sophomore campaign.

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Conference: Big East

2023 Record: 31-24 | 3rd in Conference

Head Coach: Rob Sheppard | 19th year

Top Prospect ‘24 Draft: Pat D’Amico, 3B

Top Prospect ‘25 Draft: Ryan Reich, RHP

I’ve been able to get a live look at Seton Hall three falls in a row now. In the fall of 2021, I remember thinking, “This doesn’t look like a Rob Sheppard-led team.” Something was off, and unsurprisingly, that 2022 team went 18-35. The team lost a substantial amount of talent to the transfer portal following the 2022 season. Four-year starter at third base Casey Dana left for rival UConn while promising underclass arms Zane Probst, Chris Lotito, and Drew Conover transferred to Alabama, Jacksonville, and Rutgers, respectively. I wasn’t sure what to expect going into fall ball last year, but it wasn’t long before I realized that the ship was back on course. Sure enough, the Pirates went 31-24 last spring, finishing 3rd overall in the Big East. 

A major catalyst for Seton Hall's resurgence was the addition of Giuseppe Papaccio to the coaching staff. The former Seton Hall shortstop and associate head coach played a pivotal role in NJIT's 2021 squad, orchestrating a memorable regional victory in Fayetteville. Despite losing notable pieces like elite defensive catcher Jedier Hernandez to the transfer portal once again in 2023, Sheppard and Papaccio demonstrated their adeptness at assembling a competitive team that should compete at a high level in the Big East. The coaching duo's ability to nurture developing talent suggests that the program is not just aiming for success in the present but is strategically building for sustained competitiveness in the years ahead.

Dayton transfer Nate Espelin and sophomore Ryan Reich received the starting nods in the intrasquad scrimmage. Reich is one of my breakout picks for the 2024 season. The 6’2-215 righty proved his mettle as an integral late-inning arm for the Pirates in his freshman year, continuing his success as a starter in the Cal Ripken Collegiate League over the summer. Reich compiled a 2.56 ERA, 83 strikeouts (14.2/9), and allowed only 30 hits (5.1/9) in 52.2 innings. During the scrimmage, Reich showcased a fastball ranging from 88-91 MPH, touching 92 twice and 93 once. The unique shape and angle of his fastball elevate its effectiveness beyond its velocity. Reich also introduced a 79-81 MPH slider and an 82-83 MPH splitter as new secondary pitches. While their consistency needs refinement, both secondary offerings exhibited potential and should play well off of his unique fastball. I plan on diving deeper into Reich’s profile later this winter, so stay tuned for that. Transitioning from the bullpen to the weekend rotation is no small feat for an underclassman, but Reich's performance suggests he could eventually be a Friday night starter and potentially Seton Hall's most promising pitching prospect since David Festa.

Lefty Nate Espelin wasn’t able to put it all together at Dayton after being selected in the 35th round out of high school by the Yankees back in 2019. Espelin only received 41 innings during his time at Dayton with a bloated ERA of 10.76. Despite his previous struggles, Espelin, with a medium, thick build, displayed an intriguing four-pitch mix. His repertoire includes a four-seam fastball in the 87-90 MPH range (touching 91), a mid-70s curveball that was mostly fringe-average, a low-80s changeup with occasional quality arm-side fade, and a high-80s cutter that appeared to be his best pitch. Espelin's cutter usage was limited to less than 10% in the spring of 2023, but he threw it for strikes at a very high rate, and the late break on the pitch helps avoid barrels. Dropping the four-seam usage for more cutters might be worth exploring. There were inconsistencies in the delivery and with keeping his arm on time, but Espelin's cutter-curve-changeup combo showed promise when he was in sync mechanically. Anticipate Espelin getting a shot at the weekend rotation, aiming for a resurgence in his collegiate pitching career.

A few underclassmen of note made appearances in this one. This was my first look at sophomore righty Colin Dowlen in a Seton Hall uniform after seeing him pitch a controversial gem to win a state title in 2022. He lacks height but has a stout frame and attacks hitters from a low, deceptive arm slot. The fastball sat in the 86-88 MPH range with a lot of running action to his arm side. His high spin curveball was slurvy at times but was solid-average when thrown in the upper end of his 73-77 MPH velocity range. Dowlen didn’t show much present feel for a changeup and was tiring by his third inning of work. That likely means a bullpen role for Dowlen in 2024, which gives him the opportunity to refine his promising fastball-curveball combination.

Cody Sharman is a freshman southpaw who looked particularly crisp on this day. He makes up for his lack of present fastball velocity (83-84 MPH) with advanced pitchability and poise on the mound. Sharman had no issues executing his three-pitch mix, highlighted by a 73-74 MPH changeup that dropped off the table. Another freshman, Joey Calabretti, listed as a two-way player, took the mound late in the scrimmage. Calabretti's pro-level physique and agile movements on the mound were particularly impressive. While still raw as a pitcher, the righty from P27 Academy exhibited intriguing long-term potential. Employing a crossfire finish, Calabretti shifted between arm slots, primarily throwing from a low 3/4 slot and occasionally an over-the-top angle that gave his 87-88 MPH fastball more riding life. Although he struggled to throw competitive breakers, Calabretti spun one nasty 76 MPH sweeper that resulted in a zone whiff. Calabretti is undoubtedly raw, but there’s legitimate potential on both sides of the ball. I look forward to seeing how coach Rob Sheppard and Co. choose to deploy him moving forward.

Joey Calabretti

Two-way freshman Joey Calabretti could be a unique weapon for coach Rob Sheppard.

I didn’t see righties Daniel Frontera, Cole Hansen, Jay Allmer, or Michael Gillen during the scrimmage, but all four will be important members of the Seton Hall pitching staff. Daniel Frontera’s ERA is above 6.00 after two seasons and 86.2 innings at Seton Hall. He’s better than that but is still searching for an effective secondary pitch to compliment his solid 89-92 MPH fastball that topped out at 95 last spring. Frontera, who made 14 starts last year, could find success in a swing-type role. Redshirt sophomore Cole Hansen didn’t pitch at all as a freshman for Rutgers but earned himself a spot in the weekend rotation for the Pirates by the end of 2023. Hansen made 12 appearances, half of which were starts, and finished with a 3.75 ERA. He isn’t flashy, but he mixes and locates three pitches well, with a low 80s slider functioning as his putaway pitch. Allmer is your typical sidewinding reliever with a sinker-sweeper combo. He led the team in saves last spring after transferring from UNC Asheville. The senior righty was excellent this summer in the NECBL, racking up ten saves and a minuscule 0.60 ERA. Last but not least, Michael Gillen emerged as one of the most dominant relievers in the Big East as a freshman in 2023. His stat line was remarkable, posting a 0.34 ERA and a K-to-BB ratio of 27:5 in 26.2 innings. With advanced control of his 88-91 MPH riding fastball and a high spin slider in the upper 70s/low 80s featuring ample lateral movement, Gillen's two-pitch combination makes him an ideal fit for the bullpen. However, his immediate dominance suggests that a larger role may be worth exploring down the road.

hack man

Expect veteran outfielder and on-base machine Devin Hack to provide a spark atop the Pirates lineup in 2024.

The position player group is veteran-heavy with a mix of returnees and transfers. Leading the veteran charge is 5th-year senior Staus Pokrovsky, who was one of my picks to click after watching him mash last fall. He’ll likely split time at catcher and designated hitter while serving as a formidable power threat in the heart of the order. Pokrovsky hit eleven long balls last spring, and his top-end exit velos were in the top 5% among D1 hitters. Senior Max Viera had the bounceback season the Pirates were hoping for, boosting his OPS to .858 after a disappointing .562 OPS in 2022 with Northeastern. Viera makes a lot of line-drive contact and uses his 50-to-55-grade speed well on the bases. He played shortstop last year and has the ability to play multiple positions, though he didn’t play the field during this look. Jonathan Luders and Devin Hack are two more 5th-year seniors who are coming off successful 2023 seasons. Neither offers much in the power department, but both vets recorded OBPs over .400 last year, and they rarely swing and miss. Hack is a great runner who covers ground in center and can play all three outfield positions, while Luders looked comfortable at shortstop and has experience at multiple infield spots.

The Pirates also brought in some notable transfers this offseason. After putting up a .344/.423/.656 with Quinnipiac in 2022, Danny Melnick didn’t get much playing time at Rutgers in 2023. The 5th-year senior offers some versatility with his ability to rotate between catcher, first base, and the outfield. I wouldn’t be surprised if he experienced a bounceback year similar to what we saw with Viera. Kyle Lyons, a graduate transfer from Bucknell, brings a potent combination of contact hitting and robust outfield defense. First baseman Andrew Bianco is a grad transfer from DII New Haven with a lot of physicality and an imposing presence in the box. Bianco adds some much-needed power potential and some lineup protection for Pokrovsky.

Among the group of freshmen, Kevin Milewski, Ryan Frontera, and Casey Cumiskey stood out to me. Milewski is a gigantic 6’4-230 catcher from Connecticut with well above-average bat speed and present over-the-fence power. His size may push him to first base down the road, but the power ceiling is huge. Daniel Frontera’s younger brother, Ryan Frontera, battled during a strong at-bat that led to a hard-hit double down the left-field line. He manned left field during the scrimmage but played a lot of second base during summer ball. No high school hitter in the state of New Jersey had more base hits than Casey Cumiskey last year. But it was Cumiskey’s glove at shortstop that caught my attention. Cumiskey showed impressive polish and smoothness for a freshman and looks like the heir apparent at the position. He’s a good athlete with above-average speed, at least, and there’s some projection remaining in his 6’3-190 frame.

The most intriguing player on Seton Hall’s roster from a 2024 draft perspective, in my opinion, is junior third-baseman Pat D’Amico. D’Amico had a rough freshman year (156 PA, .584 OPS), but he took a major step forward last spring, boosting his OPS over 200 points to .810. He looks more physical this fall and is filling out his favorable 6’1-185 build nicely. D’Amico had some quality rounds during BP, showed off a strong, disciplined approach, and was sound defensively at third. If D’Amico experiences another boost in production and in-game power, he’ll certainly put himself on the draft radar.

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On deck. . .

The fall ball coverage continues with Saint Joseph’s and Vanderbilt!