Cooper Hummel has achieved a lifelong dream of making the Seattle Mariners’ Opening Day roster. The 24-year-old right-handed pitcher was selected to the 25-man roster after an impressive spring training. Hummel is the first player from the Mariners’ 2018 draft class to make the team’s Opening Day roster.
Hummel was drafted in the 10th round of the 2018 MLB Draft out of the University of Florida. He made his professional debut with the Everett AquaSox, the Mariners’ short-season A-ball affiliate, in 2018 and quickly rose through the ranks of the Mariners’ minor league system. In 2019, he split time between High-A Modesto and Double-A Arkansas, posting a combined 3.68 ERA in 28 appearances.
Hummel’s rise to the major leagues was not without its challenges. He underwent Tommy John surgery in 2016 while at Florida and missed the entire 2017 season. Despite this setback, Hummel persevered and worked hard to make it back to the mound. His hard work paid off as he was named to the Mariners’ Opening Day roster.
Hummel is the latest in a long line of pitchers from the University of Florida to make it to the major leagues. He joins fellow alums such as David Price, Kevin Gausman, and Alex Faedo in making it to the highest level of baseball. Hummel is also the first player from the 2018 draft class to make it to the majors, a testament to his hard work and dedication.
The Seattle Mariners are looking to make a playoff push this season and Hummel will be an important part of their success. He has already shown he can compete at the highest level and his addition to the team will only make them stronger. With Hummel on board, the Mariners have a chance to make some noise in the American League this season.
