Former Berlin Diamond Star Moves Closer to Major Leagues

HARTFORD, CT — Berlin High School alumnus Matt Carasiti closed out the Eastern League All-Star Game on July 13 by striking out former major leaguer Neftali Soto of Harrisburg, putting the finishing touches on a 10-2 victory for the Eastern Division squad. Less than two weeks later, the Hartford Yard Goats closer took one step closer to the major leagues himself.

Carasiti, a 2009 graduate of Berlin when the Redcoats were Class L runnersup, was promoted to Triple-A Albuquerque of the Pacific Coast League by the parent Colorado Rockies. The 6-foot-3, 205-pound righthander made his debut for the Isotopes on July 26, and through Friday had tossed a pair of scoreless innings, striking out three.

At the time of his callup, Carasiti was leading the Eastern League with 29 saves in 33 appearances, while recording a 2.31 earned-run average. Montana DuRapau of Altoona is second in saves with 17.

Drafted by the Texas Rangers in the 36th round following his senior year at Berlin, Carasiti did not sign, but opted to attend St. John's University. In June 2012, he was selected in the sixth round by the Rockies, and began his professional career.

• Related Story: Berlin Alumnus Makes Eastern League All-Star Squad

Photo courtesy of Hartford Yard Goats