The Island Trees Bulldogs are gearing up for a crucial 2025 season after finishing with a strong 10-9-1 record last year. Under third-year head coach Mike Valiando, the team is focused on competing for a County Championship, with the added challenge of losing 12 seniors at the end of the season.

A major bright spot for the Bulldogs is shortstop Nick Karras, who earned Pre-Season All-Long Island honors after a standout 2024 campaign. An All-County selection and Southern Connecticut State commit, Karras slashed .478/.593/.746 last season and will be the centerpiece of the offense, leading the charge alongside outfielder Kevin Krystensen, a Farmingdale State commit. Krystensen, who hit .362 and contributed on the mound, is set to play a crucial role in both the lineup and pitching staff.

Juniors Richie Montalvo and Ryan Mabrouk are also key returnees. Montalvo, the first baseman, brings a strong on-base presence with a .513 on-base percentage last season, walking 19 times and getting hit by seven pitches. Mabrouk, who plays both outfield and pitches, added 20 ⅓ innings on the mound last year and will be expected to play a bigger role as a two-way player in 2025.

Other important returnees include outfielder/pitcher Jake McCotter, who is committed to continue his career at the College of Saint Vincent, second baseman Jack Luckey, and catcher Nick Rottino.

With the loss of Andre Mule, Valiando will lean on Krystensen, Mabrouk, McCotter, and Luckey to step up on the mound. The Bulldogs’ ability to replace lost pitching depth will be key to their success.

“We’re ready to compete,” Valiando told Axcess Baseball. “The guys are hungry, and they’re working hard to build on last year’s success. Our goal is clear: win a County Championship.”

The Bulldogs open their season at home on April 1, against Wheatley at 5 p.m., and they’re determined to make a run at the title.