Baseball has always been part of Ryan Gerety's soul. As early as kindergarten when he moved to Franklin, the game of baseball was an integral part of his being; from his young days playing T-ball, then little league and onward to high school. But it was a bumpy ride. In 2019, just as Ryan was entering Franklin High School as a freshman, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and baseball was canceled, his first season scrapped, dreams dashed.

Eager to continue playing during this COVID crisis year, he sharpened his skill in the outfield by participating in the American Legion's Baseball League over the summer. In the fall of that year with the COVID crisis abating, he entered his sophomore year and made the varsity team playing centerfield for the Franklin High School Panthers. During his tenure as a Panther, the team won back-to-back titles; being ranked #3 in the MIAA State Division 1, becoming a division 1 State Finalist, and securing the Hockomock League Championship in 2023.

Throughout his high school years, Ryan devoted himself to the sport and relentlessly trained and cultivated his talents. During the summer months when not in school, Ryan played in top-rated leagues including MLB partner, the Frontier League's Brockton Rox. The Rox name was chosen by the Red Sox in 2002 and is partly owned by the 1970's Red Sox hall-of-famer, Jim Rice. The legendary outfielder and designated hit runner became part of the Rox's new ownership in 2025 according to the Rox's website.

Zack Brown, Head Coach of the Panthers Baseball team declared, "From the very first time our staff saw Ryan play we knew he was going to be a special player in our program. Ryan does everything on a baseball field at such a high level. His tools are eye popping. But the most impressive thing about Ryan is his passion for the game. It is infectious. Ryan's work ethic and passion for the game of baseball have been unmatched in my time at Franklin High School. Ryan is an inspiration for future generations of Franklin Panthers. We could not be more proud of his success and are thrilled to watch his professional journey."

Leaving the Panthers after graduation in 2023, Ryan fielded his way to Northeastern University as a business major. When asked why he chose Northeastern, he responded, "For the outstanding academics as well as its great co-op program - and it doesn't get better than living in the city."

Ryan brought his dream of becoming a professional ball player to college, and his skill and love for the game secured him a spot with the Howlin' Huskies under the guidance of Coach Mike Glavine, a former MLB player and five-time CAA Coach of the year. In his rookie season, Ryan made 21 appearances with 14 starts. In 2025, he produced 60 hits, with 12 doubles, two triples and five homeruns while driving in 34 runs with 26 stolen bases. He started in all 61 games in his junior year, according to the sports portal of their website. Statistics like these were noticeable to those seeking young potentials for professional baseball - scouts!

In Ryan's junior year at Northeastern, his dream as a major league ball player became visible. The San Diego Padres invited him to train with them at their training facility in Arizona. They wanted him!

The San Diego Padres' minor league is the Midwest League's High-A team - the TinCaps of Fort Wayne, Indiana. When an outfielder of the TinCaps became injured, a replacement was needed and a call was made to the Padres, they needed Ryan. On his very first step up to bat in professional baseball, he belted a hit. His long-held dream of becoming a professional baseball player had just become reality.

When asked about his experience he replied, "Fort Wayne was a blast on top of a blessing. I got to see really good competition and compete at a high level. I am super grateful for the opportunity."

Now a senior at Northeastern University, we wish Ryan success with hopes that this hometown slugger progresses further into the big leagues. Perhaps an outfielder's position with the Red Sox is in his future?