Coming off a 22-5 season and a sectional championship, Perry enters 2026 with a balanced roster that mixes proven veterans with impactful newcomers. After finishing second in the Chagrin Valley Conference Chagrin Division and making a postseason push, expectations remain high for a group that returns five starters and 10 lettermen.
“We are very optimistic about our ability to compete,” said head coach Matt Platt. “We have a great mix of veteran experience and young talent.”
That blend could be the difference as the Pirates look to stay among the conference contenders.
“We expect to compete in every game and put ourselves in positions to be successful this year,” Platt said.
Experience and Leadership Set the Tone
Perry’s strength starts with a veteran core that has played in meaningful games and understands what it takes to win.
“Our biggest challenge is going to be staying consistent and managing stretches of weather that prevent us from playing on a regular basis,” Platt said. “We work through this by trying to find ways to replicate competitive, game-like reps.”
The Pirates will lean on their experience to weather those challenges while maintaining a high level of play throughout the season.
“Strengths include experience at several positions, team speed, and commitment,” Platt said. “This group of guys has shown dedication to this sport from an early age.”
Infield Anchored by Proven Veterans
Behind the plate, junior Michal Niedzwiecki (.417, 22 RBI, 20 runs, First Team All-CVC) will serve as a leader on both sides of the ball.
“Michal will be one of our leaders both behind the plate and in the batter’s box,” Platt said. “He has put in a tremendous amount of work this offseason, and we look forward to seeing it pay off for him.”
At first base, senior Trent Taylor (.284, Second Team All-CVC) brings a mix of production and leadership.
“Trent is an incredible talent who brings a great mix of athletic ability and leadership to our club,” Platt said. “He will be a big part of our success.”
Senior Justin Costello (.200, Second Team All-CVC), a team captain and Lake Erie College commit, anchors second base.
“He possesses all the characteristics necessary to be successful on and off the field,” Platt said. “He sets a great example for both our current players and the younger players in our youth systems.”
At shortstop, senior Brody Petruccelli (.250) provides experience as a four-year letterman.
“Brody is a four-year letterman for us with a lot of experience to rely on,” Platt said. “He is an excellent baserunner with a knack for getting aboard. He will be a catalyst for us this season.”
Junior Carter Hopkins (.333, Second Team All-CVC) rounds out the infield at third base.
“Carter is such a versatile player,” Platt said. “Last year, he played outfield, third base, and pitched. He contributes to our success in so many different ways.”
Outfield Speed and Emerging Impact
Perry’s outfield features a mix of speed and production, highlighted by sophomore Carter Crofoot (.337, 22 RBI, Second Team All-CVC), who emerged as a key contributor last season.
Junior Chase Sivon adds speed and defensive ability in left field.
“Chase’s speed and ability to put the ball in play impact our offense, and his ability in the outfield makes our defense better,” Platt said.
Senior Jimmy Ashburn (.200, Honorable Mention All-CVC) provides versatility in right field and on the mound.
“Jimmy has played important roles for us,” Platt said. “He has pitched in some high-leverage situations and always gets the job done.”
Junior Nick Gustin is expected to contribute as a designated hitter and first baseman.
“Nick has looked great at the plate so far this year in the preseason,” Platt said. “He is eager to help his team this year. He also plays a good defensive first base.”
Pitching Staff Blends Stability and Youth
Senior Connor D’Astolfo (5-1, 2nd Team All-CVC) leads the rotation and gives Perry a reliable presence on the mound.
“Connor will spend a lot of time on the mound for us this year,” Platt said. “He has shown the ability to throw a lot of strikes and work deep into baseball games.”
Junior Sheamus Matson brings a dynamic arm with movement and versatility.
“Shea has a live arm and a lot of movement on his pitches,” Platt said. “He has shown the ability to throw multiple pitches for strikes. We will be relying on Shea to cover a lot of innings for us this year.”
Two freshmen could make immediate impacts in Nolan Andrejack and RJ Enricco.
“Nolan is a talented rookie who is likely to play a role on the mound and in the lineup,” Platt said. “He has an unflappable poise that makes him an even better baseball player. RJ is a young lefty who is having a great preseason. He has shown the ability to throw strikes as well as barrel the ball in the cage. He will have a great impact on this team over the next four years.”
Outlook
With a strong returning core, emerging young talent, and depth on the mound, Perry has the pieces to compete at a high level in the CVC Chagrin Division. If the Pirates can stay consistent, throw strikes, and capitalize offensively, they have the potential to build on last year’s success and make another postseason push.
Perry Baseball
