ARCHIBALD, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)— Opening day in Major League Baseball is here—and this year, there’s a familiar name from NEPA on the New York Mets roster, Max Kranick.
Max Kranick, an NEPA native and former Valley View Cougar, is officially on the New York Mets' opening day roster. An inspiration for achieving your dreams for the students at Valley View.
Kranick was drafted by the Pirates in 2016, made his MLB debut in 2021, and overcame Tommy John surgery in 2022. He was picked up by the Mets this year from the Pirates, and now, he’s back in the big leagues on the Mets Opening Day Roster.
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"Anytime you have a student that's successful, especially somebody like Max that was a great student, great person, and having to work through the injury that he had and being able to make it back and being successful like he is is just fantastic," voiced Brian Durkin, Superintendent, Valley View School District.
At Valley View, his story is about more than baseball—it’s a message to students that no dream is out of reach.
"Just to shoutout to the students here about working hard, persevering, and making sure that your character, you have the highest character, and that you can make it," said Larry Pegula, Principal, Valley View High School.
"We talk about it a lot on the team how these guys are such great role models for the younger kids and the community is so excited for him, and he's one of our own," added Jason Munley, Baseball Coach, Valley View High School.
For today’s players, Kranick’s success isn’t just something to admire—it’s something to strive toward.
"Its an inspiration to me and to a lot of other people, because it shows that you know we're at a smaller school, but if you really put your mind to it you can really get what you want," said Brayden McConnell, Senior, Valley View.
"Shows you need drive and power to get what you want in life. Its a big inspiration, I hope to play for high school and one day hope to make it to the MLB," explained Noah Cibik, 8th grade, Valley View.
And the impact goes far beyond the baseball diamond.
"And I think its not only for baseball, but its for all students. That you know here's a kid from a small town that made it to the big show in New York," said Pegula.
"It doesn't matter what your dream or goal is, you will succeed if you put in the hard work," voiced Durkin.
Max Kranick and the Mets kicked off their season today in Houston, a proud moment for those at valley view to see one of their own living out his dream.
