(Editor’s Note: This is the second installment of the 2025 Up Next Series in which we highlight the top underclassmen on Long Island. Previously, we highlighted Jack Mulligan. Special thanks to Ken Kortright State Farm Agency for sponsoring this year’s series.)
Wow ! Joey Lionetti fires a no-hitter and for the first time in their 72-year history Massapequa Coast is headed to the Little League World Series ! pic.twitter.com/NROC1fF8i6
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) August 13, 2022
In 2022, Massapequa Coast LL shocked the baseball world and reached the Little League World Series for the first time in its 72-year history. They did so in remarkable fashion as RHP Joey Lionetti Jr fired a no-hitter on ESPN agains Toms River.
While that was certainly the individual moment that stood out the most, it takes more than one player to achieve that level of success.
One of their other players that performed exceptionally well was 1B Alex Pagano, who five home runs during a five-game stretch during that run in which they needed to make it through districts, sections and states before the regional against Toms River.
They would advance to Williamsport, PA where they would ultimately have their dreams ended. When they came home, they were given a hero’s welcome with a town parade.
Reflecting on that three years ago, Pagano had the following to say:
Alex Pagano (St. Anthony’s 2028) legging out a triple pic.twitter.com/XTLNtEOdTt
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) November 3, 2025
“When we played in the World Series it felt like everyone knew who you were. We played in front of 5,000 people with the best 12-year-olds in the world. The day we left, our town provided us with coach buses to take us back. Everyone in town was waiting at Burns Park. After being away from the family for close to a month, it was nice to come home and seeing those close friends that we couldn’t see. The whole thing was just a great experience.”
Since that time, Pagano has continued to excel as a player. He is currently a sophomore at St. Anthony’s HS, he helped the JV team win the league championship last year. He plays summer ball with Showtime Select.
His high school coach, Paul Parsolano said, “Alex is going to be a big part of our future. He is a super athletic kid and plays the game the right way. On-and-off the field he is a different kind of kid. He makes good decisions and understands what he has in front of him and if he trusts his instincts he will be fine. I am looking forward to seeing what the future holds for him.”
If the recent past is any indication, the future is bright for Pagano. He absolutely tore up the summer circuit for Showtime this year for Coach Joe Fusco. He mentioned that he batted .438 in over 100 at bats with a robust 1.230 OPS. He had 1 HR, 31 RBIs and was successful in all 22 of his stolen base attempts.
Pagano was named All-Tournament six times including the BCS National Championship. Additionally, he was named MVP of the 15u PG Super 25 Northeast Qualifier.
“I actually remember watching the LLWS and thinking that kid has one of the best swings I’ve seen on a 12-year-old. It’s clear his swing has translated into his high school years like I thought it would. He’s an exceptional hitter. He’s hit third for Showtime National team for the last two years. I think he has the ability to be a really good Division-I hitter down the road. He’s super athletic, he has a ton of pop and doesn’t really swing-and-miss,” said Fusco.
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
Who are some people that have had a positive impact on your career?
I would say that my entire family has had an impact on me.
Why did you choose to attend St. Anthony’s HS?
The reason for me to go was the sports, high academics and the community.
Who are your favorite athletes?
Some of my favorite athletes are Derek Jeter and Aaron Judge, the reason for this is because they’ve always inspired me to play baseball and had a big impact in my childhood.
Was baseball always your No. 1 sport?
Yes
Do you take private lessons with any instructors?
Yes I hit with Danny Lackner.
Most thrilling moment on a baseball field?
Making it to the LLWS.
Goals for this off-season?
Increasing my exit velocity and getting in the weight room more. Also getting strong, faster and focusing on academics.
Favorite musical artist?
Luke Combs
Favorite Movie?
American Sniper
Favorite restaurant on Long Island?
Pizza Undici
Any relatives play college sports?
My uncle and my aunt played college lacrosse at UNC and Villanova.
Dream Car?
GMC Sierra
Favorite vacation spot?
Cancun
