Baseball Team Prepares for a Competitive Season

As the Varsity Baseball team gears up for the 2025 season, anticipation is high. With a strong core of returning seniors, a more favorable divisional alignment, and a motivated roster, the Maroon Raiders are aiming to make a statement this year. Both players and coaches are confident that this season will be one of the most competitive in recent years.

Senior pitcher and infielder Christopher Suriani is optimistic about the team’s chances, citing the squad’s experience and talent as major advantages. "We should be a lot better this year," Suriani said. "We have a solid number of returning seniors, and we moved down a division. We should be contenders for a division title and should make deeper runs in counties and states." 

Nutley has struggled in recent years against higher-division competition, but with a new division and a deeper roster, they are looking to flip the script. Head Coach Eric Puzio echoed Suriani’s sentiments, emphasizing the team’s hunger to prove itself. "I think this team is hungry to compete and prove that the struggles of the past few years are far behind us," Puzio said. He highlighted several players expected to make an impact this season. The senior players will play a vital role, with first baseman Keith Jiratatprasot and second baseman Nick Palumbo leading the way offensively. On the mound, Seniors Drew Slomkowski and Suriani will be key arms in the starting rotation.

Behind the plate, Senior catcher Santino Ruiz is expected to be a leader both defensively and offensively. Other notable contributors include Senior Ben McNeil and Juniors Eugenio Roman and Nick Gaccione, all of whom will take on critical roles.

The team will also rely on its younger talent. Sophomores Gabe Rodrigues and Sean Fealey are battling for infield positions, while Dom Saladino, Jackson Poole, and Andrew Raboy are set to take over the outfield. Additionally, CJ Giachetti and Chris Kovacs will provide depth behind the plate, ensuring consistency at the catcher position. On the pitching side, Senior Ryan Pessoa, Junior PJ Balsamo, and Sophomore Kennan Bilotta will be key pieces in a bullpen that aims to provide stability and eat up valuable innings. 

The Raiders’ schedule is packed with competitive matchups, but both Suriani and Coach Puzio believe the team has what it takes to go toe-to-toe with the best. "I think we’ll be able to be really competitive and go deep into games with [the tougher teams]," Suriani said. "We’re going to have to win them if we’re going to be in the mix for a division title." Coach Puzio echoed this mindset, emphasizing the team’s resilience and drive. "Our whole schedule is challenging, but I feel very confident that we will play with anyone on our schedule," he said. "Our goal is a division title this season."

For Suriani and the other seniors, this season carries extra significance. As they prepare for their final year in a Nutley uniform, the focus is on leaving everything on the field. "I want to leave with no regrets and leave it all on the field," Suriani said. "I’m going to try and soak it all in and savor the time I have left." With experienced leadership, a determined coaching staff, and a deep roster, the Raiders are ready to make a serious push for a division title. If everything falls into place, this could be a special season for Nutley baseball.