A Record-Breaking Start
CJ Alfano arrived at St. Anthony's with a reputation as a power hitter, but it was his performance with a wood bat that turned heads. He smashed 13 home runs, establishing a new school record that instantly entered the program's lore.
The feat did not go unnoticed. Scouts from Baltimore's amateur department watched his swing up close during a private workout, impressed by both raw power and disciplined approach at the plate.
A Commitment to the Future
Alfano has already secured his college destination, pledging to join West Virginia University in the fall. The prospect of wearing the Mountaineers' uniform has him eager to test himself against top competition before making the transition.
His excitement is not just personal; it is tied to a charitable showcase that will bring together the best high school talent from Nassau and Suffolk counties.
Honoring a Legacy
The Nassau-Suffolk Grand Slam Challenge was created to remember former Commack coach Bryan Bonin, a mentor whose influence stretched beyond the diamond. Proceeds from the game will fund the Bryan Bonin Scholarship and raise awareness about cancer, blending sport with a broader social mission.
Two championship‑season coaches will steer the squads: Paul Gibson Jr. of Center Moriches will lead the Suffolk side, while Plainedge's Colin Fratrik will command the Nassau lineup. The pitching staffs feature standouts such as Diamond Award winner Joe Carey and Long Island Lutheran's Matt Muzikant, adding depth to an already formidable roster.
The event also highlights other notable players, including Jack Scannapieco, who earned the win for Massapequa in the NYSPHSAA Class AAA title, and coach Shaun Manning, who believes his team is loaded with talent.
Beyond the competition, the game serves as a rallying point for the community, drawing families, alumni and local businesses together. It underscores how high school baseball can be a platform for both athletic achievement and meaningful philanthropy.