Mitchell Edwards played for the Sydney Blue Sox in the 2017-18 ABL season. Photo: Joe Vella – SMP Images/ABL Media.
One of Canberra’s finest baseball talents, teenager Mitchell Edwards, has signed a lucrative six-figure contract with Major League Baseball’s Philadelphia Phillies. Edwards will soon head to to the bright lights of the United States to start his professional baseball career at the Phillie’s minor league complex in Florida.
The 18-year-old catcher played three games for the Canberra Cavalry in the 2016-17 ABL season before heading to Sydney to play for the Blue Sox this season, where he hit a .293 average, leading all catchers in batting averages across the league.
The Weston Creek Indians sensation was destined for a career in big leagues after representing Australia at the under-15 World Championships in Mexico and the under-18 World Championships in Canada last year.
Edwards will head to Florida in the coming weeks. Photo: Joe Vella – SMP Images/ABL Media.
The teenager hopes to slowly make his way up the professional ladder and is confident he can make it with his Dad by his side.
“There have been many people who have helped me in getting to this point in time and I know I wouldn’t be here without the support of my family,” Edwards said.
“My Dad signed a professional contract with the Minnesota Twins when he was my age, and his years of Minor League experience should help me deal with the ups and downs in front of me.”
Edwards was one of 11 Australians to play for the Major League Baseball world team in the Arizona Fall Classic last October. His performances impressed scouts and earned him a professional contract.
Edwards thanked his local team for welcoming him with open arms three years ago and for the part they played in his development.
“Indians President, Danny Serena, welcomed me into the Indians family along with club coach, Jason Sloan. They have been instrumental in attracting the interest of the Phillies,” Edwards said.
“I was really fortunate to be a part of the Jeremy Barnes led Baseball Canberra Academy for two years. His program and guidance helped my development enormously.
“I’d also like to thank Tony Harris and the Sydney Blue Sox management for the faith they showed in me last summer. I look forward to returning to them later this year for another ABL Season.”
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