TOMS RIVER, NJ – This week, two Toms River High School North baseball players, Ron Marinaccio and Mark Leiter Jr., are making waves with the New York Yankees.
Ron Marinaccio, a right-handed pitcher, was recently recalled from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Born in Toms River, NJ, Marinaccio was drafted by the Yankees in the 19th round of the 2017 MLB Draft.
He played college baseball at the University of Delaware before making his major league debut on April 9, 2022.
During his debut season, he posted a 2.05 ERA in 40 games, striking out 56 batters over 44 innings. Marinaccio had a notable start, being the first Yankees reliever to record a strikeout in his first 12 career appearances.
Despite some setbacks in 2023, he remains a reliable arm in the bullpen.
Mark Leiter Jr., also a right-handed pitcher, was recently traded to the Yankees. He immediately impacted by pitching against the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday night. Leiter Jr., hailing from a notable baseball family, has had a journeyman career with stints in various MLB teams, including the Philadelphia Phillies, Toronto Blue Jays, and Chicago Cubs.
His father, Mark Leiter Sr., and uncle, Al Leiter, both had successful MLB careers, which adds to the family’s rich baseball heritage. Leiter Jr. brings experience and depth to the Yankees’ pitching staff, contributing both as a starter and reliever over his career.
The Yankees’ decision to bolster their roster with these two Ocean County talents underscores their commitment to strengthening their bullpen as they aim for postseason success.
Marinaccio’s recall and Leiter Jr.’s acquisition are strategic moves to ensure the team remains competitive in the crucial second half of the season.
