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Up Next Powered by State Farm Ken Kortright Agency: Colin Raymond

(Editor’s Note: This is the seventh installment of the Up Next series Powered by State Farm Ken Kortright Agency in which we highlight the top underclassmen on Long Island. Previously, we featured Everett Zarzicki, Brian Brower, Stellan Zangari, Ryan Bush, Bryce Cutrone and Justin Ortiz. Special thanks to State Farm Ken Kortright Agency for sponsoring this year’s series.)

Syosset-native Colin Raymond, who attends a private school in NYC, has a shot to be a special player. He is coming off an incredible season in which he compiled the following numbers:

.392 AVG/.493 OBP/.586 SLG (

26 doubles, 7 triples, 2 HRs, 79 RBIs, 43 BBs, 23 Ks, 40-43 SBs, 86 runs (104 games)

His hitting instructor, Brad Jackson, had the following to say:

“Doing this for 16 years, Colin has one of the biggest ceilings as an offensive player I’ve ever seen. Quick twitch, hand eye, ability to catch barrels are all off-the-charts. Pair that with his work ethic, drive and the fact that he just turned 14-years-old, he is someone you all need to watch. A great kid from a great family, I’m happy to be a part of his process and watch him grow. He deserves everything coming his way.”

I had a chance to speak with Colin and here’s what he had to say…

Who are some people that have had a positive impact on your career?

My mom was one of the first people to believe in me by signing me up for various sports. My dad was my first baseball coach. He taught me the basics and provided knowledge of his favorite baseball players. Whether it was rain or shine, we always found a way to practice. As a player on the Jersey Storm, my coach Nigel Archibald, taught me the principals of high level baseball and prepared me for national level competition.

Was baseball always your No. 1 sport? Do you play other sports?

I started off playing soccer but I fell in love with baseball. I also play basketball to stay fit in the offseason.

Favorite players in Major League Baseball?

I am fascinated with the lefty swing so I really like Juan Soto, Jazz Chisholm and Ken Griffey Jr. I like Juan Soto and Jazz because the amount of energy they bring to the game and I enjoy watching Ken Griffey Jr’s swing and highlights on YouTube.

Do you take private lessons from any instructors?

I have been taking hitting instructions with Brad Jackson at Max Effort Baseball for the past six years. I have been working with my strength & agility, Carnell Warrick, for three years. My pitching coach, Derek Foder, and my coaching coach Jorge Genaro.

Best experience you’ve had on a baseball field?

My best experience was when I won the MVP at the WWBA striking out 10 batters in six innings against one of the best teams in the country.

Favorite TV show?

Family Guy

Favorite app on your phone?

TikTok because it’s very addicting and I can scroll for hours and still be entertained.

Favorite musical artist?

Drake because he is very versatile and he is one of the best to do it.

Goals for this offseason?

I am currently ranked 46th in the nation for Perfect Game in the class of 2028 and my goal is to find my way into the top 25 in the country. I also want to get my exit velocity up to 90 MPH and get sub 7.0 in the 60-yard dash.

Dream Car?

My dream car is Rolls Royce Phantom.