Editor’s Note: This is the 11th installment of the Sunday Spotlight series in which we highlight the top performers from the 2026 season. Previously, we highlighted Matt Kurz, Joe Carey, Dylan Weinstein, CJ Alfano, Joey Karpowicz, Danny Gilroy, Taylor Nitsch, Ryan Tullo, Anthony DiNello and Shane Meehan. Special thanks to Lux Stone Group for sponsoring this year’s series.
Here’s a good look at uncommitted LHP Aidan Casey (St. John the Baptist 2026). FB T83 and showed command of a tight slider and change up with great horizontal fade at 68-69 MPH pic.twitter.com/OrCxbabQKA
— Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) October 10, 2024
Success isn’t always linear in sports. If it’s not performance related, sometimes it’s a cruel injury that knocks you off your trajectory.
In the case of St. John the Baptist ace LHP Aidan Casey, this was unfortunately the case. After building up a lot of buzz during his sophomore year, he tore his labrum during his junior year which would require surgery that set him back. Not only would he have to miss his junior season but also a crucial summer in terms of recruiting.
To his credit, he kept his head down and worked while many of his school and travel ball teammates had success on the field and fulfilled their dreams of committing to Division-I schools.
Casey returned to his dominant self in 2026 not only as a pitcher but also as a top-of-the-order bat. He had the distinction of leading the league in ERA (1.59) but also in hits (28) and tied for first in double (9) and was third in hitting (.452). He contributed three wins and one save on the bump and held the opposition to a .195 AVG.
His head coach, Ryan Dalton, had the following to say:
“Aidan grew tremendously on and off the field during his time at SJB. He came in as a player not many people knew about and left as one of the top players in his class. He is known as a pitcher but his senior season, he put together one of the best all-around season in league history batting over .400 with a sub 2.00 ERA. His work ethic and determination to be the best player he can be is something every coach dreams of. Besides his ability, he is a top-notch person. He is such a great kid who does everything and more out staff ever asked of him.”
He will head off to Adelphi University, where he will look to contribute to Coach Mike Gaffney‘s young and talented squad as they seek their first NE10 Championship since 2011.
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 other sports?
Baseball has always been my number one sport since tee ball. I also played lacrosse and football growing up.
Who are some people who have had a positive impact on your career?
There are many people that have impacted my career, starting off with my dad who has been through it all with me and I wouldn’t be here with him. My mound grandparents have been my biggest fans. Adam Belding, my trainer, is the best in the business to work with, he is also a great role model. I would have never been able to play baseball at this level again without my physical therapist Ray Mattfield. Every coach I played for including Travis Quattrini, Ryan Dalton and Mike Demarest have shipped me into the player I am today.
Favorite professional athletes?
Carson Benge and Jeremiyah Love
Do you take private lessons with any instructors?
I have been with Neal Heaton for many years. I am now pitching and trining at Pro Pitch Labs with Craig Hansen and his crew.
What was your most thrilling moment on a baseball field?
My most thrilling moment on the baseball field was during my first outing back from my shoulder injury and throwing 1.2 innings without giving up a hit or run and coming away pain free.
What did you work on this offseason?
During this offseason, I have been trying to gain weight and get stronger so I can gain velocity. I have been doing this by training every day.
How did you enjoy your time at SJB?
My time at SJB was unforgettable. I have met some of my best friends and teammates at SJB. Coach Ryan Dalton and the rest of the staff made me the player I am today. I am grateful that I was able to attend SJB and play for him.
Explain your experience with the college recruiting process and why you chose Adelphi?
My experience with the college recruiting process was very different because I was hurt during most of the process. I had communication with multiple schools but I was unsure about where I wanted to go. Once I was healthy and pitching, Coach Pat McCabe approached me after one of my summer games on Long Island. Coach McCabe invited me to tour Adelphi and I knew right way this was the school I wanted to represent. A short time later, Coach Gaffney was hired as the head coach. After meeting him, I knew this was the right fit and the coach I wanted to play for.
Favorite restaurant on LI?
Mannino’s
Favorite app on your phone?
Favorite musical artist?
Drake
Any pregame superstitions?
I would put a bottle cap in my back pocket if I was having a bad game.
Favorite vacation spot?
Naples, FL
Dream Car?
Lamborghini Urus