(Editor’s Note: This is the tenth installment of the popular ‘Up Next’ Series in which we highlight the top underclassmen on Long Island. Previously, we featured Everett Zarzicki, Brian Brower, Stellan Zangari, Ryan Bush, Bryce Cutrone, Justin Ortiz, Colin Raymond, Jagger Adamo and JD Duffy. Special thanks to State Farm Ken Kortright Agency for sponsoring this year’s series.)
Massapequa has long been considered one of the best baseball towns on Long Island. They currently have won six consecutive Nassau County Class AA Championships and won the Long Island Championship as recently as 2022.
Much of that has to do with having a huge talent pool, and a top notch coaching staff that has allowed them to generate a never ending line of high-end players.
Massapequa freshman OF Chris Sultana pic.twitter.com/XZ6iflAVAS
Axcess Baseball LI (@axcessbaseball) January 1, 2024
One young stud to keep an eye on is freshman Chris Sultana. He had a massively productive season for Team Francisco Notorious 9.
.484 AVG (59-for-122), .589 OBP, .728 SLG (1.317 OPS), 16 doubles, 4 triples, 2 HRs, 42 RBIs, 30 SBs
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 any other sports?
Yes, baseball has always been my No. 1 sport. So far through my life I’ve played varsity volleyball as well for my high school.
Who are some people that have had a positive influence on your career?
My family, especially my mom and dad who keep me focused and on the right path, and my coaches who push me to my full potential.
Who are your favorite players in Major League Baseball?
Shohei Ohtani because he became the first MLB player in history to win ten games as a pitcher and hit 40 home runs in a season.
What has been your biggest thrill on a baseball field?
My biggest thrill I had on a baseball field was when it was the last inning of one of my Perfect Game tournaments, and I made a diving catch to win the game in center field.
Do you work with any private instructors?
Yes, I work with a private instructor. My private instructor is Cam Maron at Team Francisco Facility.
Favorite app on your phone?
My favorite app on my phone is Spotify.
Favorite restaurant on Long Island?
My favorite restaurant is La Famiglia, located in Plainview
Favorite musical artist?
Drake
Favorite TV show or movie?
42
Favorite vacation spot?
Malta
Goals for this offseason?
Prepare myself mentally and physically by working out at my gym and practicing daily in the cages at TF facility and at home.
Dream Car?
Mercedes Benz SL AMG 63 Roadster AWD 4Matic Matte Black
Favorite baseball trip you’ve been on?
Diamond Nation