Former Jet prepares for college ball

Max Schonfeld, an East Meadow High School graduate, is preparing for his first spring season for Molloy College. 

Before he began fall training, Schonfeld shined as a pitcher for the renowned Bayside Yankees travel team. The Yankees have sent dozens of players to top college teams and into the professional ranks.

Off the field, Schonfeld is quiet and low-key. Family and friends said he is humble, and rarely talks about his achievements on the diamond.

But when he toes the rubber and gets ready to deliver the pitch, that personality changes.

“I don’t know what happens,” Schonfeld said. “Something just clicks.”  

The 6’2” righthander has a diverse menu of pitches, including a fastball and slider. He is even working on a knuckleball on the side. For Bayside, Schonfeld traveled the country taking on top competition. He received the team’s version of the Cy Young award, given to the best pitcher. Schonfeld finished the summer 7-1 with a 1.42 ERA and 34 strikeouts. 

“I had a lot of fun, and met a lot of good people from all over the country,” he said. “This past summer was one of my best summers. “Now I’m amped up to go to Molloy,” he said.

This fall, Schonfeld participated in workouts and scrimmages for Molloy. He tossed four innings, and posted five strikeouts, no hits and one walk in two scrimmages. The Lions, who compete in NCAA Division II, are preparing for their first game in February, when they travel to South Carolina for a three-day tournament. 

Have college news about an East Meadow or Clarke High School graduate? Submit news and photo, with contact information to emeadoweditor@liherald.com.