BY GABY MALANGA
Sports Copy Editor
Coming off a powerful season for the baseball team where they won the NJSIAA Group 4 State Sectionals and beat multiple top-ranked teams, the boys seek to repeat with another dominant season. The team will rely on their elite returning pitchers and an influx of talent on offense and in the field.
Four-year varsity starter Frank Papeo hopes to have his best season on the mound in his senior year. “I want to win every game where I am put on the mound and accomplish a county championship with this team,” said Papeo, who finished last season leading the team in strikeouts with 82 and an ERA of just 1.64.
Junior Justin Hascup, who won GMC Pitcher of the Year last spring finished second in strikeouts with 58 behind Papeo. “I feel great, we should have a good season,” said Hascup.
Having lost many of their top hitters from last year, the team will lean more on Papeo, Hascup, and Justin Meyers. “I’m proud of my accomplishments, my hard work in the off season is paying off,” mentioned Papeo, who earned the titles of All-Division Team, First Team All-Conference, and First Team All-Area.
Junior John Smith played third base last season, but, with the graduation of shortstop Thomas Papeo, he has switched positions to shortstop. “Even though it will be hard to step up and fill [the graduated seniors’] spots, I believe we can do it and have an outstanding season,” said Smith, who had four hits in one game against Sayreville last year.
After losing 11 seniors to graduation, the team welcomes a talented group of underclassmen, including freshman Brady Meyers and sophomore Christopher Crosta. “I’m preparing by practicing on my own as well as with the team. Being consistent is a major factor and will keep us ready for the season,” expressed Meyers.
Meyers has received high praise from upperclassmen for his skills and athleticism. “He is a hard worker and shows it on the field with his energy,” stated senior Frank Papeo. “I think he will play a key role for us this year with his fielding and speed, being one of the best on the team in that category.”
The current seniors plan to assume leadership roles and create bonds with the underclassmen. “I hope to get closer as a team with the newer players that weren’t with us last year as that was an important part of our great season last year,” explained Christian Cavanaugh.
Cavanaugh looks to fill a big spot behind the plate, replacing graduated catcher and power hitter Kyle McSorley. “I am getting to the field early every day to stretch and prepare my body for the day and getting extra work in before games and practices, so I can be better for the team and help us win games this year,” explained Cavanaugh.
The team made its way down to Florida last Friday where they played competitive scrimmages against top ranked teams including IMG Academy. “Florida was a great experience for the team, we learned a lot, and can’t wait to open up our season,” said Papeo.
The Knights open their season at home on April 1 against top team Ferris at 11:00 am on Fred Cole Field.
Posted on 3/28/24 Photos by Barbare Shonia and Katelyn Buchalter
Knight Life 