The new Sandhills Bogeys catcher, Lucca Pascarella, has been gaining invaluable experience catching for MLB pitchers DJ Herz of the Washington Nationals and Austin Warren of the New York Mets as they prepare for the upcoming season.
“The opportunity to practice with them has been amazing,” said Pascarella in a news release. “It’s surreal to have big leaguers throwing to hometown young guys like me.”
Herz, who will start his second season with the Nationals, is scheduled to pitch in spring training on Feb. 22 versus Houston. Last season, he started 19 games with a 4-9 record, a 4.16 ERA, and 106 strikeouts.
Warren, who throws a 93-94 mph fastball and an 86-88 mph slider, has been in the majors since 2021 and was recently picked up by the New York Mets. Both pitchers offer Pascarella diverse pitching styles to hone his skills.
A freshman at Fayetteville Tech and a two-time all-conference player at Cape Fear High School, Pascarella chose Fayetteville Tech to further develop his game.
“I’m super blessed to still be playing baseball in college,” said Pascarella. “While baseball isn’t my entire identity, I pray that God will bless me to play professionally and use that platform to glorify Him and share the Gospel. I dream of playing in the big leagues, and through hard work and God’s timing, I believe I can achieve that.”
Pascarella is excited to join the Bogeys and play close to home.
“I’m stoked about joining the Sandhills Bogeys,” said Pascarella. “I can’t wait to play with talented guys and build lifelong friendships.”
He aims to use his time with the Bogeys to gain experience and exposure.
“As a junior college athlete, I’m looking for a potential new 4-year home in the coming years,” said Pascarella. Playing in the Old North State League offers collegiate experience with high-caliber players and elite coaches. I’m excited to compete against other collegiate players, travel with the team, and learn from Coach (Andy) Fox. Plus, with my grandpa living in Pinehurst, it’ll be great to have family cheering us on.”
Pascarella and the Bogeys open their season at home on May 29 at 6 p.m. against the Coastal Coconuts at Bogey Ballpark.
Feature photo: DJ Herz (left), Lucca Pascarella and Austin Warren. Photo contributed by Sandhills Bogeys.
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