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John Segarra: East High's dual threat

December 22, 2016

By PAUL GOTHAM
New York Staff

Trailing late in the fourth quarter of their Rochester City Athletic Conference (RCAC) opener, the state-ranked East High Eagles needed a spark. Long-time coach Darrell Barley turned to his bench and motioned for John Segarra, who had not played previously in the contest, to enter the game. The senior guard scored East’s final six points in an 81-78 victory over Leadership Academy.

Serving as a headlight is nothing new for Segarra who played a pivotal role in East’s run last spring when the Eagles claimed the RCAC title and earned top seed in Section Five’s Class AA.

Segarra opened the season on the mound for the Eagles and struck out 12 batters over five solid innings. He allowed one run on three hits. East beat eventual Class C1 finalist Sodus. (which finished the year 15-3) in the first round of the East Tournament, and the Eagles went on to win the tournament for the first time in program history.  

In the opening round of the sectionals, Segarra, hitting leadoff, finished 3-for-3 with a walk. He scored a run and paced the Eagles offense to a 5-2 win over Churchville-Chili.

“John’s versatility and attention to details set him apart from other players,” 15-year East High baseball coach Kyle Crandall said noting Segarra’s time at catcher as well as second and third base. “He is a complete team player and is always willing to put the team first.”

Segarra also delivers with the glove. Trailing 12-11 with bases loaded and one out in the sixth inning, he started an inning-ending 5-3 double play.

“John made a nice play on a hard hit line drive,” Crandall recalled. “Then stood up and threw to first base to complete the inning ending double play keeping us in the game.”

Segarra and East eventually reached the Class AA final last spring before falling to state finalist Webster-Schroeder.

Currently, Segarra and the 15th ranked (NYS Class A) Eagles are 7-2 and have won four straight. He netted a dozen in East’s recent triumph over Franklin.

With an eye toward spring and baseball season, the 5-foot-9 guard noted how his time on the court helps when takes the diamond.

“Speed and footwork,” Segarra remarked. “The footwork for defensive slides in basketball are a lot like the footwork I use taking a lead off bases. The conditioning for basketball is great. I feel ready for baseball after basketball season.” 

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