(Editor’s Note: This is the 12th installment of the Up Next series in which we highlight the top underclassmen on Long Island. Previously, we featured Jack Mulligan, Alex Pagano, Quincy Gibbs, Michael Cotto, Charlie Edwards, Evan Picciano, Nick Lawrence, Robbie Mascia, Jacob Abran, Tyler Camastro and Jason Davis. Special thanks to Ken Kortright State Farm for sponsoring this year’s series.)
Michael Garcia (St. John the Baptist 2028) pic.twitter.com/eP6ALc4R3R
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) January 12, 2026
Rarely does a freshman have an impact role at the varsity level in the CHSAA. Especially on a competitive team.
Last year, St. John the Baptist, who wound up with an overall record of 16-10 and won two playoff games over Holy Trinity and St. Anthony’s, had freshman Michael Garcia batting second or cleanup and pitching in a high leverage role.
Garcia did more than hold his own. As a freshman he posted the following numbers:
Offense: .271 AVG (19-for-70), .404 OBP, .747 OPS, 3 doubles, 1 triple, 21 RBIs, 15 BB, 13 Ks, 3 sac, 6-for-6 SBs
Pitching: 9.1 IP, 2-1 record, 1-1 saves, 3.00 ERA, .200 BAA.
His school coach, Ryan Dalton, had the following to say:
“Michael is an extremely talented player with tremendous potential and ability to become one of the top players in his class. As a freshman, he played a major role in our season and playoff run last year. One of the most impressive aspects of his game is his poise on the field – no moment is ever too big for him. He consistently faced tough pitchers, many of whom were several years older and was never fazed. Michael delivered numerous clutch hits and RBIs for us and rarely struck out. Beyond his performance, he is a great kid and very coachable. He is always looking for ways to improve and works extremely hard both on-and-off the field. He remains humble, never getting too high on himself, and is constantly pushing to get better. Michael will be a key piece of our team this season and for many years to come.”
He also displayed his impressive power in the Axcess Home Run Derby in August and posted ridiculous numbers for MVP East End in summer/fall ball. He batted .370 with a .569 OBP (1.074 OPS).
He will be one of the most exciting players in the league this season. One rival coach called him “probably the most underrated player on Long Island.”
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
Was baseball always your No. 1 sport? Do you play any other sports?
Baseball has always been my primary sport, but I played basketball and volleyball until last year.
Any family members that played college sports?
No I’m looking to be the first one in my family to play at that level.
Why did you choose to attend St. John the Baptist and how have you enjoyed your time there?
I chose SJB due to my connection with Ryan Dalton and Ronnie McKay. I played for Ronnie as a guest player for his travel team and I have known Ryan for a few years at 365 Athletics. He is a great coach and a strong support for me on the field and at SJB – I love it there. The team welcomed me as a freshman on varsity from day one.
What did you want to work on this offseason?
This offseason I want to work on getting bigger and stronger in the gym and working on my hitting and pitching.
Do you work with any private instructors?
I’ve been with Kevin Baez for hitting and pitching since I was 8-years-old and still with him for hitting mostly and now I am with Mike Demarest and Mike O’Reilly for pitching and I participate in the pitching project at 365 Athletics.
What has been your biggest thrill on a baseball field?
Playing in a playoff game last season with SJB vs St. Anthony’s in an elimination game, I came into pitch to close out the game and I hit as well to help us win and move on to play St. Dominic’s.
Who are some people that have had a positive impact on your career?
My parents have been a great support to me and helping me reach my goals and dreams and they do whatever they can to support me. Kevin Baez helps me with the mental game of baseball and what it looks like to play with integrity and just be grateful to be on the field as a freshman on varsity. I would also thank my current MVP organization and Paul Gibson & Pete Kritikos for all the support they have given me over the last year, and I look forward to the next two.
Goals for 2026?
To grow and develop as a player and reach my goal to play Division-I baseball.
Favorite pro athlete?
Didi Gregorious because when I was little he was on the Yankees and I always liked his swing and his style and the way he played the game.
Favorite restaurant on Long Island?
Baby Moon in Westhampton. They have the best pasta.
Favorite app on your phone?
My favorite app is TikTok.
Favorite musical artist?
My favorite artist is Lil Baby.
Favorite TV show or movie?
The new F1 movie.
Best baseball trip you’ve ever been on?
The best baseball trip I’ve been on was Cooperstown with the Jr. Ducks.
Dream Car?
Jeep Rubicon
Favorite Vacation Spot?
Atlantis in the Bahamas.
