Craig Biggio Inspires St. James-Smithtown's Jeremy Katz Amid Little League Dreams
The Little League World Series transformed aspirations into reality for several young athletes from Long Island.
Despite a tough loss to the formidable Fairfield National of Connecticut, New York State champion St. James-Smithtown Little League pitcher Jeremy Katz caught the eye of his idol, local sports icon Craig Biggio.
Katz, a Kings Park native like Biggio, views the Hall of Famer as a testament to the potential for success that can emerge from their small community.
“Hopefully, we can see him in the big leagues someday,” Biggio remarked about Katz, who recently excelled in the New York home run derby.
Biggio reflected on the challenges of gaining recognition outside their island home, stating, “I used to say, the hardest part was getting off the island when it comes to being recognized. So the young man is accurate with that.”
Sharing in the excitement, former Met Frank Catalanotto expressed his joy at witnessing a team from his hometown reach the Metro regional final earlier this month. “I was pumped,” he said.
Biggio also offered valuable advice to 12-year-old Katz as he navigates his baseball journey: “Think big, dream big, keep things in priority, and just go play, have fun, and don’t put any extra pressure on yourself.”
He encouraged Katz to take his career step by step: “Take it in chapters. Make your high school team, play well there, and then hopefully you get an opportunity in college, and then maybe get drafted.”
Meanwhile, two Chaminade High School students made headlines during the MLB Little League Classic by providing commentary for the Mets’ impressive 7-3 victory over the Mariners.
“It was beyond belief. I’m actually a big Mets fan,” said Roman Brunetti, a soon-to-be senior who contributed color commentary on the special “KidsCast.”
Thomas Gamba handled play-by-play duties, recalling his experience from last year’s Williamsport game between the Yankees and Tigers. “This year, I really wanted a home run, and I got two,” he shared, noting that his passion for broadcasting ignited after being cut from the school’s crew team by “fate.”
“I think I nailed the calls pretty well. … It was incredible, I can’t put it into words,” Gamba added, reflecting on his experience under the guidance of former Post reporter Pat Reichart at their Mineola Catholic school.
