Editors Note: This is the nineteenth installment of the popular Up Next series in which we highlight the top underclassmen on Long Island. Previously, we featured Dylan Weinstein, Jaxson Torres, Richie Roberts, Joe Maxwell, Dom Muccia, Logan Lamberson, Fred Klauck, Jake Ostertag, Mason Gatchalian, Jagger Franco, Evan Frangas, Ryan Matson, Dylan Frers, Aidan Dobrie, Tyler DAmico, Lucas Sweeting, Shea Corona & Van Johnson. You can read them all by clicking here. Special thanks to Ken Kortright State Farm Agency for sponsoring this years series.)
Steven “SJ” Garneau is a freshman at Holy Trinity HS. He certainly doesn’t look like a freshman, as he stands 6’1 tall already and is an imposing figure when he stands on the mound.
This past summer, he earned an invite to USA Baseball’s ADP Program which is defined as the top 75 players in the country. They compete in a tournament with the top-15 teams in the country. His team finished with the silver medal. Garneau performed very well, showcasing his low 80s fastball and incredible athleticism going 5-for-5 on stolen base attempts.
SJ Garneau (Holy Trinity 2028) ripping a triple pic.twitter.com/73JY6Wobi9
Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) March 3, 2025
For his summer team, Long Island Baseball, he slugged .596, compiled 22 hits, scored 20 runs and drove in 14 runs.
I spoke with his pitching coach, Frank Valentino and he said:
“SJ is dedicated to his craft. It has been a privilege to coach him over the last few seasons and watch him develop and compete. His frame and athleticism are what you first notice, but the qualities that have allowed him to excel as a freshmen are the common separators amongst young athletes. He is eager to learn and get better, priorities the details, is comfortable as a leader and competes with passion.”
His hitting coach. John Galanoudis had the following to say:
“He’s a phenomenal kid. Super hard worker who is totally dedicated to getting better each day. He’s a baseball junkie constantly studying the game. He has a ton of upside and has really bought into working on his mindset and approach instead of just perfecting his swing. Extremely coachable and will be a complete weapon when he fills out.”
I had a chance to speak with him and here’s what he had to say…
Was baseball always your No. 1 sport?
Baseball was always my number one. I still play basketball during the school season, but not outside of school.
Any family members that played college or pro sports?
Yes, Earl Williams. He is my great grandmother’s nephew. He won Rookie of the Year with the Braves in 1971.
Who are some people that have had a positive impact on your career?
My parents have had a big impact on my playing career because they push me to perform at the best of my abilities.
What was the most thrilling moment of your baseball career?
The most thrilling moment I had was when I hit three home runs in one game.
Favorite players in Major League Baseball?
My favorite player is Ronald Acuña Jr. because he plays the outfield like me and he also plays with a lot of swag.
What were your goals going into the offseason?
Some of my goals for this offseason were to work hard and get myself on varsity as a freshman, get stronger and become and better person.
Any goals for 2025?
My goals for 2025 are to increase my average fastball velocity.
Do you work with any private instructors?
I hit with John Galanoudis, who is the hitting coach for Molloy and I pitch with Frank Valentino, who pitched in the Mets organization.
How have you enjoyed your time playing for Long Island Baseball?
I have enjoyed my time with LIB, because the coaches are great and the exposure to college is some of the best a young player could see.
Why did you choose to attend Holy Trinity?
I chose to attend Holy Trinity so I could have the best chances of pursuing my baseball career while also keeping up with my academics.
Favorite restaurant?
Outback Steakhouse
Favorite movie?
Interstellar
Favorite musical artist?
Travis Scott
Any pregame superstitions?
Listen to country music
Favorite vacation spot?
The beach
Best baseball trip you’ve been on?
Playing for the Athlete Development Program for USA Baseball
Dream Car?
RAM pickup truck