JAKE BURSZTYN

Hometown: Syosset, NY
School: Syosset High School
Positions: Catcher, First Base

​

For Jake Bursztyn, baseball and community have always gone hand in hand. Representing Syosset, NY, and Syosset High School, Jake has made his mark on the field as both a catcher and first baseman—and as a proud three-time JCC Maccabi Games athlete.

 

Jake’s Maccabi journey began in 2023 and has already been filled with unforgettable memories. His favorite? Winning the gold medal in 2024. But for Jake, the Games meant more than the competition. “Being part of the Maccabi team impacted me by allowing me to meet people that enjoy playing baseball while sharing the same Jewish values as me,” he explains. Representing his Jewish identity went beyond baseball: “To be able to compete with other Jewish athletes from the U.S. and meet athletes from Israel and all come together was the most important.”

 

Jake has been playing baseball for nine years, and along the way, he’s represented programs like Syosset, B1, Titans, MVP, and of course, the Long Island Hammer. Behind the plate is where he feels most at home. “I love that I’m directly involved in every single pitch and am able to see the whole field and take control of the game,” he says of catching—a position that demands leadership and grit.

When asked who has influenced him the most, Jake points to his dad, whose support and guidance have fueled his passion for the sport. His baseball goals reflect his drive and determination: “I want to play college baseball at a high academic school regardless of what division or conference it’s in.” Off the field, he’s equally focused, aiming “to go to a good school and then get a good job.”

Jake’s favorite big-league player is Pete Alonso, whose combination of power, leadership, and energy inspires him. And while many know Jake for his serious presence on the diamond, there’s another side to him too—“I’m funny,” he says, a reminder that his personality is just as strong as his play.

Jake Bursztyn is more than just a catcher—he’s a leader, a competitor, and a proud Jewish athlete whose journey is defined by both his love of the game and his embrace of identity. With passion, determination, and a quick sense of humor, his story is only beginning.