Editor’s Note: This is the 20th 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, Jason Davis, Michael Garcia ,Vincent Bourne, Nate Lewis, Jack Yonkman, Andrew McQuade, Dean Geiger, Matthew Passantino and Conor Dietz. Special thanks to Ken Kortright State Farm Agency for sponsoring this year’s series.
Colby Grzelaczyk (MacArthur 2028)
Headlines a deep pitching staff for MVP South Shore featuring a devastating splitter. pic.twitter.com/fwi7ambCO6
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) March 1, 2025
Standing 6’4 at just 15-years-old, Colby Grzelaczyk is an imposing figure on the mound.
He made his presence felt this summer for MVP South Shore Fiore, where he compiled a 5-0 record, 2.24 ERA with 70 Ks over 78 innings.
He is now a sophomore at MacArthur HS, who enter a new era under head coach Frankie Ziegler following an incredible 30+ year tenure by the legendary Steve Costello.
Grzelaczyk comes from a strong baseball family as his father and uncle both played Division-I ball. If he continues to progress, he could possibly be next in line to do so.
His summer coach, Nick Fiore, had the following to say:
“Colby is an intriguing prospect with a 6’4 lanky frame that projects well at the next level. On the mound, Colby shows advanced feel for pitching and the ability to consistently pound the zone, working ahead of hitters and controlling the tempo of the game. His standout pitch is a devastating splitter that dives late and generates swings-and-misses, making it a true out pitch against both right and left-handed hitters. Beyond his physical tools, Colby brings a strong competitive presence to the mound. His teammates have complete confidence when he takes the ball, knowing he’ll keep the team in the game and give them every opportunity to win no matter how big the moment or stage may be.”
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
Has baseball always been your No. 1 sport? Do you play other sports?
Yes I’ve been playing baseball since I was 5-years-old. I used to play basketball but I stopped to focus primarily on baseball when I got to high school.
Who are some people who have had a positive impact on your career?
My family has been there for me and have cheered me on my entire career but specifically my dad who has been my primary instructor and coach since I was a kid. He has coached me and my teams since 8u until high school. Nick Fiore, who has coached me from 14u up until now at MVP South Shore. He helped me believe in myself by putting his trust and confidence in me to pitch in some of our biggest games last year. Lastly, my teammates. They have pushed me to be a better player and teammate.
Do you take private lessons from any instructors?
My father has been my primary coach/instructor since I was a kid. Nick Fiore and the rest of the staff from MVP South Shore and Brad Jackson and the Max Effort staff who have trained me for the last 4 years.
Any family members that played pro or college sports?
My father, Brian Grzelaczyk, played Division-I baseball for George Mason University and my uncle, Ken Grzelaczyk, played Division-I baseball at St. John’s University and was drafted by the San Diego Padres.
How have you enjoyed your time with MVP South Shore?
I have enjoyed my time at South Shore very much. I have been with them since 13u. I am very grateful to have Nick Fiore and Pete Kritikos from MVP by my side. They have given me endless opportunities to compete at different levels to test my skills against some of the best players on Long Island and guided me in the right direction. The organization has been great to me from day one.
What has been your most thrilling moment on a baseball field?
My most thrilling moment on a baseball field has got to be winning the championship at Cooperstown with the LSW Astros in the summer of 2022. It’s something I will remember forever.
What did you want to work on this offseason?
This offseason my primary focus was to hit the weight room harder and get stronger while continuing to work on perfecting my craft as a pitcher and hitter.
Goals for 2026?
One major goal would be to make the MacArthur high school varsity baseball team as a sophomore and make big contributions as a pitcher and hitter.
Favorite pro athletes?
As a Mets fan, my favorite athletes are Francisco Lindor and Jacob deGrom since I watched them play while I was growing up.
Favorite restaurant on Long Island?
Texas Roadhouse
Favorite musical artist?
Drake
Favorite app on your phone?
Favorite TV show or movie?
Star Wars Trilogy
Dream Car?
Ferrari
Favorite vacation spot?
Florida theme parks
