Special thanks to Metamorphosis Landscape Design for sponsoring this year’s series
by Hunter Javeline
Coach Ezequiel Hernandez and the Copiague Eagles are excited to return home after playing every game on the road this past year because of the reconstruction of their home field. The Eagles went 5-14 in the very tough Suffolk County League III.
Coach Hernandez is entering his fourth year as the skipper of this squad. From the start, Hernandez has been focused on rebuilding the culture. The Copiague coaching staff’s goal is “to build a competitive program while helping our players grow both on and off the field.” Coach Hernandez said in an interview with Axcess Baseball.
The Eagles were a young team that gained a lot of experience heading into the 2026 season. Many of the younger players gained experience in close games throughout the year. This helped the team prepare for bigger roles and situations for the upcoming year.
During the offseason, Copiague built a lot of chemistry by playing in a fall ball league as a team. The team also spent a lot of time in the weight room, working to become stronger hitters.
The Eagles graduated Adrian Cruz this past year. He was a utility player who hit .345 last season with 19 RBIs and 15 stolen bases. “Adrian was a big part of our lineup and his leadership will definitely be missed,” Hernandez said. Cruz is continuing his baseball career at Queensborough Community College.
One of the key leaders who is returning is senior Aidan Roman. Roman is committed to play baseball at Manhattanville University. He is a two-time Suffolk All-League player. Roman is a four-year varsity starter who will be making contributions on the mound and in the field this upcoming season.
Aidan Roman (Copiague 2026) showing off the arm during outfield drills. He reached 83 MPH and his throws were spot on. pic.twitter.com/tnoc8Bqg9H
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) May 31, 2025
Steven Falco is going to be a key pitcher for Copiague this upcoming season. The senior, who is committed to Curry College, is expected to anchor the pitching staff. “Steven will be a big arm for us on the mound,” Hernandez said. “He’s put in a lot of work and we expect him to play a major role this year.”
Carlos Gutierrez is entering his senior year behind the dish. Hernandez praised his toughness behind the plate. He will not only be leading the pitching staff, but the entire team. Another player who provides stability and leadership is senior Anthony Peralta. Peralta and Gutierrez are expected to have big seasons in the field and at the plate.
Vlad Batista is another player that Coach Hernandez is excited to return this upcoming season. Batista is a player who creates havoc on the bases and is always looking to take the extra base. “Vlad adds a lot of speed and athleticism to our lineup,” Hernandez said.
To round out the pitching this season is junior Justice Santiago. Santiago is a southpaw who adds depth to the pitching staff. “He [Santiago] is a talented left-handed pitcher who gives us another strong option on the mound.”
Sophomore Jake Vargas gained valuable experience on the mound in close games as a freshman. The coaching staff is expecting him to take on a bigger role in his sophomore season as he keeps developing and getting better.
On the offensive side of the ball, Jaedyn Robinson is expected to be one of Copiague’s top threats on offense and will play a large role in the middle of the lineup. Hernandez said, “Jaedyn has the ability to be a big bat for us and we are excited to see what this year has in store for him.”
Jhoan Ortiz had a very successful year on JV and earned a chance to prove himself at the next level. He is expected to step in and be the shortstop of the infield. Ortiz brings a lot of energy day in and day out to everything the team does. He is also an athletic player. Johan Pengel is a sophomore who will bring his athleticism to the team this year.
The Eagles are going to put pressure on other teams with their bat-to-ball skills and speed. “We have players who can consistently put the ball in play and create opportunities on the bases,” Hernandez said.
There are many seniors who will be leading the team this year and helping the sophomores adjust to the varsity level. Hernandez explained, “The seniors have been part of the program for several years and understand what we are building and our expectations.”
Copiague opens its League III schedule against Smithtown East, one of the top teams in League III on April 6 at their new turf field. The community is fired up for the return of baseball to Copiague.
