Greater Middlesex Conference baseball rankings for Week 2

 

Andy Mendlowitz
MyCentralJersey.com

Top 10

1. Old Bridge (7-1)– last week No. 8 – In a season of close games in the Red Division, the Knights have just found ways to win. Enter the huge two-game sweep over North Brunswick last week. The Knights scored five runs in the top of the seventh to win Game 1 by 6-5. Then, Kyle McSorley’s double in the bottom of the eighth gave the Knights a 3-2 win. The Knights followed that up with a 5-2 win over East Brunswick on Monday. Justin Hascup, Justin Meyer and Frank Papeo are developing into one of the best staffs in the area. The jump from No. 8 to No. 1 is well warranted.

2. North Brunswick (4-4)– last week No. 1 – The Raiders followed that tough series with Old Bridge with a clutch 6-1 win over St. Joseph on Monday. Zack Konstantinovsky couldn’t have had a better game. The Rutgers-bound star hit two home runs and struck out 12 in going the distance. The series was set to continue Tuesday. The Raiders fall a spot to No. 2 and their CV includes two-game splits with Old Bridge and Monroe.

3. St. Joseph (3-3)– last week No. 2 – The Falcons beat state-ranked Gloucester Catholic last Wednesday before dropping the game against North Brunswick to snap a three-game win streak. St. Joseph remains up high in the rankings with splits against Old Bridge and Monroe. The talent’s certainly there for a strong finish.

4. East Brunswick (4-4)– last week No. 3 – The Bears traded walk-off victories with Monroe last week and that just about sums up their season, in which any game is up for grabs. East Brunswick has also split their two games with South Brunswick and South Plainfield, and dropped the first game against Old Bridge on Monday. They were slated to play again Tuesday. Those quality wins and losses keeps EB in the Top 5.

5. Monroe (3-4)– last week No. 4 – See above. The Falcons are hanging tough in the Red Division and took the key Game 1 against South Brunswick behind Harrison Lollin’s gem – a one-hitter with 15 strikeouts.  Monroe is 2-3 in one-run games. As coach Sean Field noted after the 5-4 walk-off win over East Brunswick on Friday, they could be one of the best teams or near the bottom. Now, they have confidence with two-straight victories.

6. South Brunswick (3-4)– last week No. 5 – I hate to write it a third time, but … See Above. Just look at the Vikings’ roller coaster-type week in which all three games could have went either way. South Brunswick edged South Plainfield 2-0 behind ace Joey Tuttoilmondo’s gem (11 Ks, 1 H, 1 BB). The Vikings then lost 16-13 to South Plainfield in eight innings before dropping the 3-0 game to Monroe on Monday. Game 2 against Monroe was set for Tuesday before a meeting with Old Bridge on Thursday.

7. Spotswood (8-0)– last week No. 7 – The Chargers are certainly making a case for a potential jump in the rankings. Spotswood has outscored opponents 83-13 with four shutouts. Casey Cumiskey leads the explosive hitters and stingy pitching staff.

8. Sayreville (5-3) – last week No. 6 – The Bombers ran into two hot-hitting teams in their latest games and fell 12-2 to Edison and to J.F. Kennedy by the same score. That just happens in baseball sometimes. Sayreville has series sweep over Woodbridge and splits with Edison and Middlesex, squads in the top half of the White Division. That’s a good body of work.

9. South Plainfield (4-3)– last week No. 9 – Win a game. Lose a game. That was the order for the Tigers in the early going until a 13-4 non-conference win over Somerville on Monday to get past .500. As long as they’re getting Red Division splits, though, South Plainfield will be just fine. They have splits with East Brunswick, North Brunswick and South Brunswick. Junior Jayden Alvarez and freshman Dom Massaro are having breakout seasons at the plate.

10. Edison (5-2)– last week No. 10 – The Eagles are in the thick of a tight race for the White Division pennant. That’s why erupting for the 12-2 win over Sayreville to grasp the series split was clutch. Paul DiCarlo led the way with a 4-for-4 day with three RBI and is having a strong season on the mound.

(Records through Monday, April 17. The week for the rankings go from Tuesday to Monday)

NJ baseball: GMC Top 10 for Week 2 (mycentraljersey.com)

2023 - Game # 7 South Plainfield 13, Somerville 4

Andy Mendlowitz
MyCentralJersey.com
 

South Plainfield 13, Somerville 4

Frankie Flannery drove in four runs as South Plainfield earned the impressive non-conference win over Somerville.

The visiting Tigers (4-3) led 5-4 and scored two runs apiece from the third through the sixth innings for the victory.

Sophomore Kevin Penny went six innings to earn the win with five strikeouts. Zack Robinson had three RBI in the win.

NJ Baseball roundup: Results, analysis, links for Skyland, GMC, UCC (mycentraljersey.com)

Frank Flannery had everyone’s full attention during the Monday afternoon status report meeting. Frankie’s presentation and overall performance was as tight (3-3, 3r, 4 rbi, bb, sb) as the suit he wore to the office.

The Tigers defeat Somerville 13-4

Starter Kevin Penny was a bulldog (6ip, 2er, 5h, 5k) picked up his 2nd Win in 4 days. Zach Robinson (3-3, 2 2b, 3b, 3 rbi, bb, 2 sb, 2 r) Frank Flannery(3-3, 4 rbi, 3r, bb) Ashton Donovan (2-4, 2b, bb, 2 rbi, r )Dan Kapsch (3-4, 2 rbi, r) led the offensive attack.

2023 - Game # 6 South Plainfield 16, South Brunswick 13 (8 innings)

Andy Mendlowitz
MyCentralJersey.com

 South Plainfield 16, South Brunswick 13

South Plainfield won a wild game by scoring three runs in each of the sixth, seventh and eighth innings after trailing 10-6.

The Tigers (3-3 overall, 3-3 in Red Division) earned a key split after South Brunswick (3-3, 2-2) won Thursday 2-0.

Zack Robinson had a massive day by going 4-for-5 with six RBI and a home run and double. Jayden Alvarez also homered and doubled (3-for-3) with three walks and three RBI. Adding to the highlight film was Dom Massaro, who went 4-for-6 with four RBI and a pair of doubles.

Dan Kapsch went 2-for 2 with three walks and scored four times, while Joe Moroney went 2-for-5 with two runs scored in the win.

Sophomore, Kevin Penny earned the win by throwing the final two innings and did not allow a hit.

NJ Baseball roundup: Results, analysis, links for Skyland, GMC, UCC (mycentraljersey.com)

After 8 grueling hours of back and forth deliberations, Zach Robinson provided plenty of evidence (4-5 hr 2b bb 6rbi 2 r &sb) that led the jury to render a verdict in his favor. Robinson & his partners, proved to be relentless in their efforts to achieve victory.

The Tigers won 16-13 in 8 & split the series vs South Brunswick. Sophomore Kevin Penny pitched the final 2 frames (0h 2k) & earned his 1st career W. Robinson (4-5 hr 2b 6 rbi 2r) Massaro (4-6 2 2b 4rbi 4 r) Alvarez (2-3 hr 3rbi 2bb) Kapsch 2-2 3 bb 4r) Moroney (2-5 2r) were clutch!!

2023 - Game # 5 South Brunswick 2, South Plainfield 0

Andy Mendlowitz
MyCentralJersey.com

South Brunswick 2, South Plainfield 0

Joey Tuttoilmondo threw another gem with a complete game shutout allowing just one hit and walk in the six innings with 11 strikeouts for the key Red Division win.

The visiting Vikings (3-2, 2-1) scored in the first and fifth innings. Slugger Ethan Fantel singled and drove in a run and Aaron Perna scored twice and went 1-for-3 and walked. Teddy Garcia also went 2-for-3 and Daniel Kirk singled and walked.

Aldo Pigna gave the Tigers (2-3, 2-3) a great start by allowing two runs (1 ER) in six innings off of five hits and two walks with seven strikeouts. Chase Donovan threw a scoreless inning. Dan Kapsch had the lone hit for South Plainfield and Brandon Bickunas drew a walk.

NJ Baseball roundup: Results, analysis, links for Skyland, GMC, UCC (mycentraljersey.com)

Greater Middlesex Conference baseball rankings, notes after opening week

 

Andy Mendlowitz MyCentralJersey.com

Division Notes

Red Division: Parity. Intrigue. Chaos. Hold on fans, if the first week is any indication it’s going to be some ride this spring. Look at the two-game series results: North Brunswick vs. South Plainfield – split. St. Joseph vs. Old Bridge – split. St. Joseph vs. Monroe – split. East Brunswick vs. South Brunswick – split. Nobody has gained an early edge and it just may be like that for the whole season.

Granted, it’s only a week in, but one thing is apparent: all seven teams have pitching depth. If your ace wins, great, Game 2 isn’t guaranteed. Strong arms especially come into play in the third game of the week. Take our No. 1 North Brunswick. The Raiders certified ace Zachary Konstantinovsky threw 6 1/3 shutout innings in their 2-0 win Tuesday over South Plainfield, which took Thursday’s finale. Saturday, junior Alejandro Jabar hurled six shutout innings in a complete-game 10-0 win over Monroe in the first game of the series.

Top 10 Entering Week 2

(Records through Monday, April 10)

1. North Brunswick (2-1) – preseason No. 1 – The Raiders opened with three totally different games – a 2-0 win over South Plainfield, an 11-2 loss to SP and a 10-0 win over Monroe. North Brunswick has the veteran pieces to not get frazzled no matter how the game develops.

2. St. Joseph (2-2) – preseason No. 2 – The Falcons could easily be 4-0 or 0-4. Yup, that’s the type of season this is looking like. Starting 2-2 seems about right. St. Joseph certainly has the pieces to get hot and go on a run. Catcher Mark Gialluisi (7-for-11) and  OF Robbie Carvelli (7-for-13) have hit like leaders.

3. East Brunswick (3-1) – preseason No. 4 – Fans know that the Bears have the deep arms. But they’re also hitting with 21 runs over their last two games. East Brunswick will be very dangerous with that kind of complete output.

4. Monroe (1-2) – preseason No. 5 – On one hand, it doesn’t seem right to move a team up a spot after a 1-2 start. But early season rankings are sometimes like that and Monroe’s three games were against No. 1 and No. 2. The Falcons got a split with St. Joseph and lost to North Brunswick. Monroe’s veteran nucleus should lead the way as the newcomers develop.

5. South Brunswick (2-2) – preseason No. 6 – The varsity inexperienced Vikings showed guts in coming back to edge East Brunswick on opening day. Having an early split with the Bears is a good sign and junior 1B/P Ethan Fantel seems primed to have a great season.

6.Sayreville (4-1) – preseason not ranked – The Bombers certainly had proven hitters entering the season, but needed to replace their two workhorse pitchers. Looks like Sayreville will be just fine and be a contender in the White Division. The Bombers swept No. 3 Woodbridge and split with Middlesex, always a tough team. They also beat Piscataway, twice putting up double-digit runs.

7. Spotswood (4-0) – preseason No. 7 – No, not a bad start at all for the Chargers. Spotswood has outscored opponents 38-1, including gutting out a 2-1 win over Metuchen on opening day. The brothers Cumiskey, Casey and Carter, are a combined 16-for-28 with 11 RBI.

8. Old Bridge (3-1) – preseason No. 8 – The Knights needed some hitters to step up this season. Well, they scored 28 runs in their three wins. Splitting with No. 2 St. Joe’s is a great start and they have an anticipated series with North Brunswick on Thursday and Saturday.

9. South Plainfield (1-2) – preseason No. 9 – Fans know the Tigers are always going to be in the mix on the diamond. However, they did need to replace some key graduated seniors. Well, South Plainfield turned in a head-turning 11-2 win over No. 1 North Brunswick keyed by Dom Massaro’s four RBI in a split of the series. The Tigers lost to East Brunswick on Saturday and have a key week coming up with East Brunswick again and a series with South Brunswick.

10. Edison (3-1) – preseason No. 10 – Talking about powering up, the Eagles have absolutely crushed the ball and scored 56 runs over the first four games. Edison also got superb pitching (1 ER allowed in first three games). The Eagles, though, lost to Colonia 14-9 on Monday for a series split. Next up is an intriguing series with a hot Sayreville team.

Received consideration

Woodbridge (2-2): The Barrons were ranked No. 3 in the preseason poll. Maybe it’s not fair to drop Woodbridge out after it swept Colonia then lost twice to Sayreville. They’re certainly a quality team who’s going to contend in the White Division. However, I had to get Sayreville in and no Red Division team lost a series. So, Woodbridge was sort of the early odd team out with several chances to play their way back in.

Middlesex (4-1): The Blue Jays winning games? Now, that’s no surprise. The perennial Group 1 power, though, returned just one regular starer and two pitchers. Yeah, they’ll be just fine. Middlesex split with Sayreville, beat Princeton Day and swept JP Stevens for the hot start.

NJ baseball: GMC Top 10 after opening week (mycentraljersey.com)

2023 - Game # 4 South Plainfield 12, East Brunswick 1

Baseball: High-powered offense leads South Plainfield past East Brunswick

Updated: Apr. 11, 2023, 8:05 p.m.
Published: Apr. 11, 2023, 8:03 p.m.

By Nestor F. Sebastian | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

South Plainfield scored on a double by Zach Robinson and a double by Jay Alvarez in the first inning to get the offense rolling in a 12-1 win over East Brunswick in East Brunswick.

South Plainfield (2-2) opened up scoring when Robinson doubled on a 1-1 count, scoring one run and South Plainfield scored six runs in the second inning, with Dom Massaro, Robinson, Ashton Donovan, and Alvarez all knocking in runs in the inning. Donovan led things off on the mound for South Plainfield, allowing three hits and one run over five innings, striking out seven. South Plainfield racked up 10 hits in the game. Robinson and Alvarez all managed multiple hits for South Plainfield

Dustin McGuinness started the game for East Brunswick, surrendering eight runs on five hits over one and two-thirds innings, striking out one. Eshan Shah and Jack Ryan entered the game as relief, throwing two innings and one and one-third innings, respectively. East Brunswick socked one home run on the day. Jack Gerould had a dinger in the first inning. Drew Mennona, Gerould, and Jack Nelson each collected one hit to lead East Brunswick. 

Baseball: High-powered offense leads South Plainfield past East Brunswick - nj.com

Andy Mendlowitz
MyCentralJersey.com

South Plainfield 12, East Brunswick 1

Jay Alvarez fueled South Plainfield’s big offensive day as the Tigers got 10 hits to get the Red Division split against East Brunswick.

The visiting Tigers (2-2, 2-2) scored twice in the first inning and then put up six runs in the second and four in the fourth for the five-inning win.

Alvarez homered and doubled with four RBI, while Zack Robinson went 2-for-3 with two RBI, a double and a walk. Brandon Bickunas added a hit and two RBI and Mike Sbailo Aldo Pigna each got their first career varsity hits. Dom Massaro (RBI), Nick Irizarry (RBI) and Dan Kapsch each had hits and Joe Moroney drove in a run.

Ashton Donovan slowed down the hot East Brunswick offense by allowing one run off three hits and two walks with seven strikeouts.


South Plainfield 12, East Brunswick 1

Jay Alvarez fueled South Plainfield’s big offensive day as the Tigers got 10 hits to get the Red Division split against East Brunswick.

The visiting Tigers (2-2, 2-2) scored twice in the first inning and then put up six runs in the second and four in the fourth for the five-inning win.

Alvarez homered and doubled with four RBI, while Zack Robinson went 2-for-3 with two RBI, a double and a walk. Brandon Bickunas added a hit and two RBI and Mike Sbailo Aldo Pigna each got their first career varsity hits. Dom Massaro (RBI), Nick Irizarry (RBI) and Dan Kapsch each had hits and Joe Moroney drove in a run.

Ashton Donovan slowed down the hot East Brunswick offense by allowing one run off three hits and two walks with seven strikeouts.

Jack Gerould hit a solo home run for the Bears (3-2, 2-2) in the first inning and Drew Mennona and Jack Nelson (double) had hits.

NJ Baseball roundup: Results, analysis, links for Skyland, GMC, UCC (mycentraljersey.com

Tuesday brought us some great April weather and an even greater performance at the office by Jay Alvarez. He delivered as soon as he arrived (2-2)rbi 2b - 3 run Jack- bb -3r. His work helped close the deal early enough to beat the traffic home while his coffee was still hot.

2023 - Game # 3 East Brunswick 9, South Plainfield 3

East Brunswick tops South Plainfield - Baseball recap

Updated: Apr. 08, 2023, 6:57 p.m.|
Published: Apr. 08, 2023, 6:56 p.m.

By Chris Nalwasky | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Dustin McGuinness collected three hits including a double, two RBI, and a run in East Brunswick’s 9-3 win over South Plainfield on the road in South Plainfield.

Jason Agrait also went 3-for-4 with two doubles, an RBI, and three runs, Jack Nelson added two hits, two runs, and an RBI, and Jack Ryan singled and walked twice and had an RBI and a run in the win, which pushed the Bears’ record to 2-1.

East Brunswick scored five runs in the second inning and tallied 11 hits as a team.

Michael Marchese earned the win yielding just one run on three hits and a walk with 10 strikeouts.

The Tigers (1-2) scored a run in the first inning and two more in the seventh for a little rally. Dom Massaro hit an RBI-triple.

East Brunswick tops South Plainfield - Baseball recap - nj.com

Andy Mendlowitz
MyCentralJersey.com

East Brunswick 9, South Plainfield 3

Junior righty Michael Marchese struck out 10 and allowed one run off of three hits and a walk as East Brunswick took the first game against South Plainfield.

The Red Division series concludes Tuesday at East Brunswick.

The Bears (2-1, 2-1) lashed out 11 hits and put up five runs in the top of the second to take a 5-1 lead.

Jason Agrait went 3-for-4 with two doubles, an RBI and scored three runs and Dustin McGuinness went 3-for-5 (2 RBI, run, 2B). Jack Nelson (RBI, 2 runs) and Jack Ryan (2 BB, RBI, run) each had two hits. Marchese also singled.

Jayden Alvarez went 2-for-3 for South Plainfield (1-2, 1-2) and Dom Massaro tripled with an RBI. Nick Irizarry (single) and Zack Robinson also each had an RBI.

NJ Baseball roundup: Results, analysis, links for Skyland, GMC, UCC (mycentraljersey.com)

2023 - Game # 2 South Plainfield 11, North Brunswick 2

South Plainfield knocks off No. 7 North Brunswick - Baseball recap

By Craig Epstein | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Dom Massaro led the way for South Plainfield going 3-5 with four RBI and a run and was a triple away from the cycle to knock off North Brunswick, No. 7 in the NJ.com Top 20, 11-2 in North Brunswick.

North Brunswick (1-1) took a 2-0 lead in the bottom of the third inning before South Plainfield (1-1) answered back with three runs in the fourth. South Plainfield pulled away in the sixth tacking on six more runs.

Nick Irizarry also went 2-4 with three RBI and a run while Dan Kapsch had a two-run double and scored a run.

Zachary Konstantinovsky led North Brunswick going 2-3 with an RBI and a run while EJ Accettura went 2-3 with a run.

South Plainfield knocks off No. 7 North Brunswick - Baseball recap - nj.com

Andy Mendlowitz
MyCentralJersey.com

South Plainfield 11, North Brunswick 2

South Plainfield scored eight times in the top of the sixth to stun North Brunswick in a Red Division game. Center fielder Dom Massaro drove in four runs on a 3-for-5 with a home run and double. Leadoff hitter Nick Irizarry had three RBI and went 2-for-4 with a walk to help in the 11-hit attack.

The Red Division has much parity in opening week and it seems to be wide open this spring. North Brunswick, No. 1 in the Home News Tribune Top 10, won the opener against No. 9 South Plainfield 2-0.

The Tigers, which have several varsity newcomers, showed they’re going to be a player. Junior lefty Aldo Pigna allowed two runs in 4 1/3 off five hits and two walks with four strikeouts. Zack Robinson finished with 2 2/3 innings of shutout ball (2 H, 1 BB, 2 K). He also went 2-for-4.

South Plainfield showed its going to have a balanced line up as No. 7 hitter Frank Flannery (2 BB, 2 runs), No. 8 Joe Maroney (hit, 2 BB, 2 runs) and No. 9 Dan Kapsch (double, 2 RBI, BB) contributed. Ashton Donovan and Jayden Alvarez each had a hit.

North Brunswick had multi-hit games from EJ Accettura (2B), Zachary Konstantinovsky (RBI) and Josh Rodriguez.

NJ Baseball roundup: Results, analysis, links for Skyland, GMC, UCC (mycentraljersey.com)

Nick Irizarry (3-5 r bb 3rbi) showed up to work today determined to be the guy. His clutch performance during the 4th hour of intense negotiations put his team over the top and paved the way toward the achievement of their main objective.

2023 - Game # 1 North Brunswick 2, South Plainfield 0

By 

Craig Epstein | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Zachary Konstantinovsky earned the win for North Brunswick, No. 7 in the NJ.com Top 20, tossing 6 1/3 scoreless innings of three-hit ball and struck out four batters to down South Plainfield 2-0 in South Plainfield.

Kyle Anderson went 1-1 with an RBI and two walks for North Brunswick while Josh Rodriguez finished 1-2 with a run.

Ashton Donovan threw 6 1/3 innings for South Plainfield and allowed four hits and four walks. Joseph Maroney, Dom Massaro, and Zack Robinson each accounted for a hit.

No. 7 North Brunswick defeats South Plainfield - Baseball recap - nj.com

Andy Mendlowitz

MyCentralJersey.com

North Brunswick 2, South Plainfield 0

Zachary Konstantinovsky pitched like an ace as North Brunswick took the opener over South Plainfield. The senior threw 6 1/3 shutout innings and allowed three hits and a walk with four strikeouts. Kyle Anderson got the last two outs. He also singled, walked twice and drove in a run. Frankie Garbolino and Josh Rodriguez each added a hit in the opener.

South Plainfield got a well-pitched game by Ashton Donovan in the loss. He allowed two runs in 6 1/3 innings.

NJ Baseball roundup: Results, analysis, links for Skyland, GMC, UCC (mycentraljersey.com)

Greater Middlesex Conference team-by-team previews for 2023

2023 South Plainfield Tigers Baseball

 

Andy Mendlowitz

MyCentralJersey.com

RED DIVISION

East Brunswick

Coach: Chris Kenney, 11th season (151-99 record)

Last Year: 17-13 overall, 10-8 Red Division

Key Losses: Ryan Basham (1B, .353 BA); Vinny LaRocca (OF, .293 BA); Dylan Lugo (OF); Christian Bermudez (2B, .282); Romeo Diaz (3B); Nicholas London (2B); Michael Lozzi (1B, DH)      

Probable Lineup: Jack Nelson (Sr., CF); John Oranchak (Sr., LF); Jack Ryan (Jr., 1B); Ryan Schultz (Sr., 1B); Dustin McGuinness (Jr., SS); Jack Gerould (Sr., 3B); Jason Agrait (Sr., C); Michael Ma=chese (Sr., INF); Drew Mennona (Jr., 2B)

Pitchers: Joseph Ditzel (Sr., LHP); Michael Marchese (Sr., RHP); Dustin McGuinness (Jr., RHP); Aaron Warner, (Sr., RHP); Lukas Meyer (Jr., RHP); Jack Ryan (Jr., LHP); Jack Gerould (Sr., RHP); Elias Viscariello (Jr., RHP); Eshan Shah (Jr., RHP)

Top Reserves: Christian Fiegenwinter (Sr., 1B); Connor Feigenwinter (Jr., C); Derick Christie (Jr., OF); Jacob Hines (Jr., 3B); Ryan Bennett (Jr., OF, 1B)

Outlook: The Bears caught fire late in the season with a 10-4 record in the second half and had several memorable, drama-filled games. East Brunswick lost 1-0 in 12 innings to North Brunswick in the GMC Tournament semifinals. The Bears then topped North Brunswick 4-2 in eight innings in the NJSIAA Central Group 4 semifinals to reach the final as the No. 9 seed. Now, the veteran Bears look to carry that momentum and will again be led by their pitching and defense. They return all four starters that contributed to a team ERA of 2.10. Seniors Joe Ditzel (1.11 ERA), Michael Marchese (70 Ks), Aaron Warner (1.90) and junior Dustin McGinnis (50 Ks) should keep the Bears in just about any game. They also have some nice depth on their staff with junior newcomers Lukas Meyer, Jack Ryan, Jack Gerould, Elias Viscariello and Eshan Shah.

The winning recipe continues with their defense. EB had a fielding percentage of over .950 last year. The Bears do have to replace right fielder Vinny La Rocca, center fielder Dylan Lugo, 2B Christian Bermudez and 1B Ryan Basham. The good news for Bears fans – they return five starters. Catcher Jason Agrait provides pop after hitting three home runs last year. Expect a three-man rotation between third and short depending on who is pitching. Jack Gerould will start at third base alongside shortstop Dustin McGinnis and Michael Marchese will fill in at both positions when he’s not pitching. The left field will be patrolled by Jhon Oranchak, who’s moving over from right. Jack Nelson will be in charge of center field. There is tough competition between the remaining spots on the deep team. Five players are vying for time in right field in senior Ryan Schreier and Ryan Patrick, Derick Christie, Jacob Hines and Ryan Bennett. The second base position will come down to either Drew Mennona or Lukas Meyer. First base will be between Ryan Schultz – who delivered the go-ahead RBI with a pinch-hit single in the sectional semifinal win last season – and Jack Ryan.

The one spot that the Bears hope to improve on is their offensive production. The team struggled especially early last season and ended the year with a .230 average. However, they should be improved with five key returning starters who gained experienced. East Brunswick will look to hit for average and utilize its team speed to put pressure on the defense and have a balanced approach from 1-9 in the lineup.  Dustin McGuinness (.314) leads the team with offensive expectations from John Oranchak, Jack Nelson and Jack Ryan. The Bears will be backed up with talent in the junior and senior class featuring Christian Fiegenwinter, Connor Feigenwinter, Derick Christie, Jacob Hines and Ryan Bennett.

Monroe

Coach: Sean Field, 4th season

Last Year: 16-11 overall, 12-4 Red Division

Key Losses: Ian Pedulla, Emmanuel Polo, Shaun Siegel, Paul Syvertsen, Brandon Weiss, CJ Wisniewski

Probable Lineup: Stephan Pascucci, Nick Barbera, Larry Casey, Michael Ortiz, Jake Lobue, Nick Sellari, Lucas White, Kyle McCauley, Joe Veczko, Trevor Wallace, Nate Peitz, Sai Lekkala, Ohm Desai, Zach Wallace

Pitchers: Harrison Lollin (So.), Lucas White (Sr.)

Outlook: Monroe enters the season in somewhat of a similar situation as last year. In 2022, the Falcons faced questions after needing to replace 13 seniors. Well, they did just fine with a second-place finish in the tough Red Division. Now, they must overcome the loss of eight seniors who all contributed and filled a role last season. They include pitchers CJ Wisniewski (.057 ERA), now at NJIT, and Brandon Weiss (1.52). However, Monroe has a strong nucleus back led by junior right-hander Harrison Lollin (87ks 1.13 ERA in 87IP). The Oregon-commit emerged as a true ace with a 1.13 ERA and 87 strikeouts in 62 IP last season. Senior righty Lucas White (2.51 ERA in 39 IP) gives Monroe a good one-two combo. Hitting-wise, the Falcons return SS Nick Sellari (.342, 17 runs), 3B Trevor Wallace (.277) and OF Aidan Lane (.295, 14 RBIs). Head coach Sean Field plans to platoon players at several positions early on and intends to rely on pitching and defense to be successful this season. 

North Brunswick

Coach: Mark Blevins, 7th Season

Last Year: 22-10 overall, 14-6 White Division

Key Loses: Frandy Martinez (OF), Patrick McCann (INF), Kyle Tarabokia (OF/P), Ryan Kindler (P), Aaron Neder (P)

Probable Lineup: EJ Accetura (Sr., OF); Yomar Carreras (Jr., SS);  Zach Konstantinovsky (Sr., RHP); Omar Carreras (Sr., IN/C); Frankie Garbolino (Sr., C/Inf); Josh Rodriguez (Sr., Inf/OF); Kyle Anderson (Jr., OF); Chris Rosario (Jr., Inf); Sammy Berardo (Sr., OF)

Pitchers: Zach Konstantinovsky (Sr., RHP); Alejandro Jabar (Jr., LHP); Kyle Anderson (Jr., RHP); Frankie Garbolino (Sr., RHP); Justin Batts (Sr., RHP); Marvin Mathias (Sr., RHP); Aaron Wilhelm (Jr., RHP); Conner Levine (So., RHP); Jason Fabrizio (So., RHP, LHP)

Top Reserves: Justin Batts (Sr., INF/RHP); Danny Breheney (Jr., Util); Avery Price (Jr., OF); Marvin Mathias (Sr., OF); Jaser Martinez (Jr., OF)

Outlook: Raiders fans won’t soon forget last season’s thrilling season highlighted by their first-ever GMC Tournament championship and a 17-2 finish to the year. Now, North Brunswick moves into the Red Division from the White with a talented senior class. Ace starter and Rutgers commit Zachary Konstantinovsky (7-0, 120 K/2 BB in 67 IP) gives his team a chance to win against anybody. Yes, those stats are right. He’s also a leader offensively (.381 BA, 31 hits, 10 XBH), along with Omar Carreras (.444 BA, 44 hits, 16 XBH, Tusculum-commit), Yomar Carreras (.348 BA, Rutgers-commit, 39 hits, 12 XBH) and Frankie Garbolino (27 H/19 RBI). North Brunswick isn’t just top-heavy. Like last season, the Raiders will look for contributions throughout the lineup from returning veterans EJ Accetura, Josh Rodriguez, Chris Rosario and Kyle Anderson. On the mound, juniors Alejandro Jabar and Kyle Anderson will start alongside Konstantinovsky. A number of veterans including Marvin Mathias will help in relief to complete the staff. North Brunswick even gets an offensive and defensive boost with Delaware State-commit Justin Batts transferring in from Bergen Catholic. The team’s versatility will allow the Raiders to feature multiple defensive alignments.

Old Bridge

Coach: Matt Donaghue, 6th season

Last year: 17-12 overall, 10-6 in Red Division

Key Losses: Ryan Freel (INF), Will Kennedy (LHP), Nick Covolus(P), Giovanni Fuda (OF)

Probable Lineup: Mike Villani (Sr.); Thomas Papeo (Sr.); Frank Papeo (Jr.); Kyle McSorley (Sr.);  Josh Martinez (Sr.); Justin Hascup (So.); Justin Meyer (Jr.); Evan Smith (Jr.); Shaun Bogda (Sr.); Adam Scire (Sr.)

Pitchers: Frank Papeo (Jr.); Justin Hascup (So.); Thomas Papeo (Sr.); Justin Meyer (Jr.); John Smith (So.); Evan Smith (Jr.); Aiden Kipper (Jr.); Luke Hagen (Jr.)

Top Reserves: Adam Scire (Sr.); Christian Cavanagh (Jr.); Ahkil Penkala (So.); Luke Hagen (Jr.); Colton Benevento (Jr.); Ryan Saunders (Jr.); Anthony Jannucci (So.); Peter Barca (Sr.); Rocco Celentano (Sr.); Dan Distasio (Sr.)

Outlook: Old Bridge is one of those teams that’s just always in the mix and develops throughout the spring. The latter might be the case this season as the Knights return varsity experience mixed in with some youth. That includes having one senior in the rotation. Junior lefthander Frank Papeo had a breakout year in 2022 (1.25 ERA, 39.1 IP). Papeo and Kyle McSorley combined to drive in 21 runs a season ago. The Knights, which reached the Central Group 4 and GMCT quarterfinals last year, should again be a tough out.

South Brunswick

Coach: Tim Sweeney, 9th season

Last Year: 12-13, 7-8 Red Division

Key Losses: Teonis Pimentel (OF), Phil Jaccoma (C), Dylan Amin (INF/P), Alex Ciccone (SS/P), Pete Cortez (OF/P), Thomas Drake (P), Mattox Lim (INF/P), David Rybinski (OF), Andrew Sawyer (P), Charlie Soriano (OF), Nolan Watlington (P)

Probable  Lineup: Christian Copeland (Sr., INF); Brian Culhane (Jr., Of/P); Ethan Fantel (Jr.,1B/P); Teddy Garcia (Jr., INF); Jake Graci (Jr., C); Will Haman (Jr., INF/P); Ryan Kessler (Sr., C); Danny Kirk (Jr., INF/P); Jack Leach (Jr., INF/P); Marcus Outram (Sr., INF); Aaron Perna (Jr., OF/P); Joseph Sanchez (Jr., C); Will Sassman (Fr., OF/P); Anthony Servidio (Jr., INF/P); Atticus Solomons (Jr., P); Nick Stenger (Jr., OF/P); Sagar Thapar (Sr., INF/P); Joey Tutoilmondo (Sr., P) 

Pitchers: Ethan Fantel, Will Haman, Danny Kirk, Jack Leach, Aaron Perna, Will Sassman, Anthony Servidio, Atticus Solomons, Nick Stenger, Sagar Thapar, Joey Tutoilmondo

Outlook: The Vikings are retooling their roster for the 2023 season. With 11 seniors graduating after the 2022 season, South Brunswick will be relying on a new cast of players to step into the lineup and compete this season. What the roster lacks in varsity experience, they make up for with energy, excitement, hard work and determination. A good starting point is a pair of All-Red Division standouts. Ethan Fantel (.446 avg., .708 slg., 4 HR) and Joey Tutoilmondo (6-1, 1.26 ERA, 100 Ks) give the Vikings star power and look to lead the young team. Senior catcher Ryan Kessler and junior Will Haman will also provide leadership in a junior-heavy roster that is loaded with versatility and athleticism.

South Plainfield

Coach: Scott Gleichenhaus

Last Year: 13-14 overall, 8-7 in Red Division

Key Losses: Luke Bickunas (C), Julian Irizarry (CF), Jack Massett (P), Tyler Balent (OF-P), Ty Ducoff (2B)

Probable Lineup: Zach Robinson (Jr., P-IF); Ashton Donovon (Sr., 1B-P); Frank Flannery (Sr., C); Brandon Bickunas (Jr., 3B-1B); Jayden Alvarez (Jr., IF-P); Joseph Maroney (Sr., OF); Nick Irizarry (S0., OF-IF); Brian Potts (Jr., C-1B); Dan Kapsch(So.,2B); Dom Massaro (Fr., OF)

Pitchers: Ashton Donovan (Sr., RH); Aldo Pigna (Jr., LH); Mike Sbailo (Sr., LH); Chase Donovan (Jr., RH); Zach Robinson (Jr., RH); Andrew Csordos (Jr., RH); Kevin Penny (So., LH); Jayden Alvarez (Jr., RH) 

Top Reserves: Matt Ciullo (Sr., OF); Dan Gonzales(Sr-OF)  John Chabrak (Sr., U) Chris Tschopp (Sr., DH); Aldo Pigna (Jr-OF); Kevin Penny (So-OF-1B) Brian Potts (Jr.,C-1B)

Outlook: South Plainfield is returning two impactful players from last season’s team that battled in the tough division. Team captain and cleanup batter Ashton Donovan (.313 BA, 19 RBI) and Zach Robinson (team-high 23 runs, .302), who led off last year but is likely moving to the No. 3 spot, should provide plenty of highlights. Brandon Bickunas and Jay Alvarez, who both cracked the lineup last year, have the ability to drive in runs and to show their improvement. Joseph Maroney, a standout on the football field, and the other captain Frank Flannery each will take their cuts and help the ball club win games. Additionally, the Tigers lineup will feature some speed, which was a missing ingredient last season. Robinson, sophomores Irizarry and Kapsch – both solid contact guys – and freshman Dom Massaro all possess the ability to apply massive pressure on the defense. 

The strength of the team lies in the pitching and defense department. Ashton Donovan leads the staff (2.70) and has two years of varsity experience on the bump. Zach Robinson will also be relied on to pitch against the tough GMC lineups. Crafty lefty Aldo Pigna and Ashton's brother, Chase, each have varsity experience and will be key members of the staff. Newcomers Mike Sbailo, Andrew Csordos and Kevin Penny will also be given opportunities to show the county what they can bring.  

The infield defense should be as solid as it gets with Robinson, Alvarez and Kapsch having slick gloves. Ashton Donovan mans first base when he is not on the mound, while Bickunas and Penny provides depth at that position. The outfield is loaded with talented, strong-armed athletes that have the ability to hawk down balls. Massaro patrols the CF position and will be flanked by the speedy Irizarry and a platoon that consists of sophomore Kevin Penny, junior Aldo Pigna and seniors Joe Maroney and Matt Ciullo.

St. Joseph

Coach: Mike Murray Jr., 7th season

Last Year: 22-9 overall, 13-1 Red Division

Key Losses: Donovan Zsak (LH); Andrew Goldan (RH); Jack Kern (2B); Tom Zammitti (3B)

Probable Lineup: Mark Gialluisi (Sr., C); Josiah Brown (Sr., SS); Robbie Carvelli (Sr., CF), Tyler Delvecchio (Sr., 1B); Matthew Kosuda (Jr., LF/3B); JP Zayle (So., 3B/LIF), William Ramsay (Sr., RF), Christian Azcona (Sr., INF), Joseph Zammitti (Jr., 2B); Bobby Christensen (So., 2B); Connor Drury (Sr., OF), Matthew Friedman (So., INF)

Pitchers: Jimmy Mulvaney (Sr., RH); Bryan Rios (Sr., RH); Michael Dasilva (Sr., RH); Joseph Barca (So., RH); Matthew Friedman (So., RH); Benny Fonseca (Sr., LH); Mason Cinca (Sr., RH); Jeremy Mellyn (Sr., RH); Patrick Cruise (Jr., RH); Connor Walker (Fr., LH)

Top Reserves: Christian Salgado (Jr., C); Zach Penley (So., C); Charlie Algier (Sr., INF); Jaden Jamison (Sr., OF); Will Kwiatkowski (Jr., INF); John Risley (Jr., OF)

Outlook: The Falcons return plenty of talent and depth after winning 22 games in 2022 and a third- consecutive Red Division title. The team oozes talent led by Virginia-commit Mark Gialluisi, a top defensive catcher and an offensive threat (.495 BA, 21 RBI, 42 runs, 18 SB). The parade of talent includes All-Conference SS Josiah Brown (Manhattan commit), All-Conference CF Robbie Carvelli (Lehigh Commit), All-Conference 1B Tyler Delvecchio (Salve Regina commit), Matthew Kosuda (William and Mary commit), Christian Azcona (Eastern Kentucky commit), Will Ramsay (Misercordia commit) and Connor Drury (Middlesex College commit). The deep and balanced lineup will be bolstered by impressive newcomers JP Zayle, Matthew Friedman, Bobby Christensen and Joe Zammitti. The Falcons graduated four senior pitchers including a pair of arms now at Rutgers in Donovan Zsak and Andrew Goldan, and Trinity RHP Walter Schwartz. In their absence, Jimmy Mulvaney (Fairfield commit) and Bryan Rios (Felician commit) will look to build off impressive junior seasons where they helped pitch the Falcons to key wins in the Division. They will be joined by senior Mike Dasilva, a Union transfer, who should make an immediate impact after completing the NJSIAA 30-day sit rule as a transfer. Senior lefty Benny Fonseca has impressed in early spring outings. Sophomores Joe Barca and Matthew Friedman got varsity experience as freshmen and are going to see big jumps in their roles on the mound.  

NJ baseball: GMC 2023 team previews (mycentraljersey.com)

Baseball rankings: Final Home News Tribune GMC Top 10

 

1. North Brunswick (22-10): It was the Spring of the Raiders. North Brunswick finished 17-2 over its last 19 games, including winning the Greater Middlesex Conference Tournament as the No. 6 seed for the first time in program history. The Raiders beat top-seeded St. Joseph 4-2 in the championship game and reached the NJSIAA Central Group 4 semifinals.

2. St. Joseph (22-9): St. Joseph captured the GMC Red Division title and went 18-2 against conference teams, reaching the GMCT final for the second-straight season. The Falcons fell in the South Non-Public A semifinals and played a difficult non-division schedule against opponents with a 289-116 record.

3. Middlesex (23-6): The Group 1 Blue Jays play like a high enrollment Group 4 team. Middlesex moved up from the Blue Division and captured the White Division title this spring. They lost a 14-13 thriller to eventual GMCT champ North Brunswick in the quarterfinals and reached the Central Group 1 final.

4. Woodbridge (25-7): The Barrons jumped to a 16-2 record and made a run to the North 2 Group 4 championship game. In between, Woodbridge finished second in the White Division and reached the GMCT semifinals falling to St. Joseph.

5. East Brunswick (17-13): The Bears were in just about every game and had nine loses by either a run or two runs. That included a 1-0 defeat in 12 innings to North Brunswick in the GMCT semifinals. In Central Group 4, the ninth-seed Bears upset top-seeded Middletown South 1-0 in the quarterfinals and reached the championship game.

6. Monroe (16-11): After graduating 13 seniors from the co-Red Division championship team in 2021, the Falcons had players step up and produced another strong season. That included a second-place finish in the division. Monroe had close losses in both the GMCT and Central Group 4 quarterfinals.

7. Old Bridge (17-12): The Knights finished in third place in the always tough Red Division and were the only team that beat St. Joseph in the regular season. Old Bridge also played a difficult nonconference schedule and reached the quarterfinals in Central Group 4.

8. South Brunswick (12-13): The Vikings navigated through the Red Division with splits against East Brunswick, Monroe and Old Bridge. They finished sixth in the division, but earned our final No. 8 spot with two wins over South Plainfield, including a 3-1 victory in the GMCT opening round.

9. South Plainfield (13-14): The Tigers graduated 10 seniors from a 20-5-1 team that won the White Division. South Plainfield moved to the Red and did just fine with a fifth-place finish (8-7 division record), including a sweep of Old Bridge.

10. Spotswood (14-13): The Chargers edge Colonia and Metuchen for the final spot in our Top 10. Spotswood finished in fourth place in the White Division with a 9-7 record and swept both of those clubs. Considering three of the top four teams in this ranking are from the White, fourth place in the division is no small feat.

Baseball rankings: Final Home News Tribune GMC Top 10 (mycentraljersey.com)

Home News Tribune 2022 All-GMC Baseball selections

 

All-GMC SECOND TEAM

P: Alfonso Esposito, Middlesex

P: Andrew Goldan, St. Joseph

P: Michael Marchese, East Brunswick

P: Eddy Nunez, Woodbridge

C: Luke Bickunas, South Plainfield

1B: Peter Cortez, South Brunswick

INF: Ty Ducoff, South Plainfield

INF: Nick Sellari, Monroe

INF: Stephen Young, Middlesex

OF: Rocco Bellamy, Piscataway

OF: Isaiah Cherry, J.F. Kennedy

OF: Tyler Kadi, St. Thomas Aquinas

U: Ryan Basham, East Brunswick

U: Michael Colonnello, Sayreville

U: Ethan Fantel, South Brunswick

U: Ty Kobylakiewicz, Woodbridge

Honorable Mentions:

South Plainfield: Ashton Donovan, Jack Massett, Zack Robinson

Home News Tribune 2022 All-GMC Baseball selections (mycentraljersey.com)