Longwood Star Groblewski Wins Axcess Home Run Derby

The power was on full display this weekend as Axcess Baseball hosted its sixth annual Home Run Derby at The Diamond in the Pines in Coram.

Eleven talented players stepped into the batter's box looking to put on a show and earn bragging rights in one of the summer's most entertaining baseball events.

The participants included Roman Dixon, Brian McGoldrick, Matthew Kurz, Tyler Groblewski, Jack Lapertosa, Michael Garcia, Sal Ansaldi, Anthony Muscatelli, Brady Ayres, Ryan Paradiso and Mason Gatchalian.

After a thrilling opening round, four players advanced to the semifinals: Dixon, Garcia, Kurz and Groblewski.

When the dust settled, it was Groblewski and Kurz who earned spots in the championship round, setting up an exciting matchup between two of Long Island's talented young players.

And when it mattered most, Groblewski delivered.

The Longwood standout and Felician commit came through with a walk-off home run in the finals to capture the championship in dramatic fashion. Groblewski had already shown off his power throughout the competition, hitting eight home runs in the first round before adding another five blasts in the semifinals.

Then came the big one.

Facing Hofstra commit Matthew Kurz in the finals, Groblewski saved his best swing for last, launching a walk-off blast to claim the title and bring the competition to an exciting conclusion.

The 6-foot, 185-pound outfielder and left-handed pitcher put his power on full display throughout the afternoon, showing why he is one of the players to watch as he continues his baseball career.

For the players who participated, the Home Run Derby provided a chance to compete, showcase their skills and enjoy some summer baseball with plenty of friends, family and supporters watching.

For Groblewski, however, it was an afternoon he'll remember for a long time.

Eight home runs in the first round. Five more in the semifinals. And then a walk-off shot in the championship round.

That's one way to win a Home Run Derby.

Congratulations to Tyler Groblewski on an impressive performance and a thrilling championship at the sixth annual Axcess Baseball Home Run Derby.