Kings Park's Jeremy Katz Wins New York State Little League Home Run Derby

Jeremy Katz, a 12-year-old from Kings Park, has made headlines after winning the New York State Little League Home Run Derby held on Staten Island, bringing pride to his St. James-Smithtown team.

“In the first round, I hit two out of five. I felt good, I felt loose,” Katz recounted, reflecting on his performance against 24 of the state’s top young hitters.

With renewed confidence, he approached Round 2 with enthusiasm. “I stepped back up and thought, ‘I feel great!’ Then I just smacked five — that was the greatest I ever hit in my life,” he said. This season, Katz has been a standout player, boasting an impressive .870 batting average while also contributing as a pitcher and first baseman.

Preparation played a key role in his success. During a rain delay at a previous game, Katz took the initiative to study MLB home run techniques. “I watched a lot of Cal Raleigh’s home runs — he drives his back knee down right into the floor,” Katz explained. Inspired by this technique, he decided to incorporate it into his own swing, leading to his remarkable performance.

As the St. James-Smithtown team advances to the state final against Staten Island’s South Shore, excitement is palpable. They secured their spot with a solid 2-0 victory over White Plains, having allowed only one run throughout the tournament.

“I felt good on the mound,” said Kevin Moran, who pitched a shutout in the previous game. “My team made a bunch of very good plays, picked me up when I let runners on.” The camaraderie among the players is evident as they engage in competitive tag games at their hotel, maintaining high spirits.

With their sights set on the Metro Regional Tournament in Bristol, Connecticut, the team is just one win away from a chance to compete in Williamsport. “We’re all excited. It’s going to be a good game,” Moran added. “Let’s have fun.”