Frank Catalanotto Reflects on Little League Memories Amid Championship Chase

It’s a nostalgic time for Frank Catalanotto, the former Mets outfielder, as he follows the journey of the St. James-Smithtown Little League team in their quest for glory in the Little League World Series.

A Walk Down Memory Lane

Long Island’s own Catalanotto, who honed his skills in the same league during the late 1970s and early ’80s, shares his excitement:

“I try to follow them as closely as I can. It definitely brings up some memories … what they’re doing now and how much fun they’re having, I miss those times, like you can’t believe.”

Catalanotto now manages the Hofstra Pride baseball team, but his heart remains connected to his roots. He expressed gratitude for the enduring love of baseball in the Smithtown area, especially after having his number 27 retired by the St. James-Smithtown Bulls last year at Gaynor Park.

The Heart of Baseball at Gaynor Park

Every day, Catalanotto walks past Gaynor Park, a nostalgic space where he developed his passion for the game. He shared:

“It’s where I got my passion for the game.”

With a lifetime batting average of .291, he understands the pressure young athletes face. As the St. James-Smithtown team approaches important matches against teams from Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New Jersey, Catalanotto offers this crucial advice:

Tips for Young Players

• Stay Calm: “Sometimes the moment would get too big for me and some kids.”
• Enjoy the Game: “My best times were when I was having fun playing baseball.”

Catalanotto emphasizes the importance of enjoyment:

“Soak it all in, enjoy it, and have as much fun as you can.”

Inspired by Local Legends

Among the current roster, star player Jeremy Katz draws motivation from Hall of Famer Craig Biggio, who hails from nearby Kings Park. Katz aims to show the world the talent that exists in his small town, declaring:

“I want to be the second guy to make it to the majors.”

He reflects on the impact of Biggio’s career on local athletes aspiring to reach major league baseball.

Conclusion: The Future of Baseball in Long Island

As St. James-Smithtown takes the field for the championship, the stories of former players like Catalanotto and current stars like Katz shine a light on the vibrant baseball culture on Long Island.

Engaging with Little League Baseball isn’t just about the game; it’s about community, memories, and creating future stars. Whether you’re a young player or a seasoned coach, the joy of the game resonates through every pitch, every swing, and every victory.

For more information on Little League and youth baseball, check out the official Little League website.