Sam Street Relishing First Season in Pro Ball
Sam Street has been on an amazing journey. From Melbourne, Australia, to New Mexico, to Texas, to good ole' Jamestown, New York. On every stop of his journey, the one constant is that Sam has always impressed. His first season in professional baseball has been no different. Street has been a force out of the Jamestown Jammer bullpen all season long. I recently got the chance to catch up with Street, ask him about is childhood in Australia, his transition to college ball in America, his great first pro season, and being named a 2014 New York-Penn League All-Star.
"Baseball certainly isn't the biggest sport down there in Autralia, but it does seem to really be growing in popularity. A couple years, ago we got a pro team down there and that was really nice to see. But, I've been playing since I was a child. It's always been a real passion of mine," Street said.
After growing up in Melbourne, Street had the opportunity to come to the United States and attend college at a junior college in New Mexico, and then at the University of Texas-Pan American in Edinburg, Texas.
"After my two years in New Mexico, the coaches at the University of Texas-Pan-American gave me a wonderful opportunity I couldn't pass up. They showed me around the school, and the campus, and my time there benefited me in so many ways. It was an awesome experience, and it helped me become the player I am today."
Street was drafted in the 16th round by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2014 Draft, and wound up in Jamestown at the historic Diethrick Park. His first year has been nothing short of awesome. In 12 appearances for the Jammers this season as of August 21st, Street has thrown 20 innings, only given up 11 hits, three runs, two walks, and he has struck out 14 batters. His side-winding delivery has kept opposing hitters off balance all season long. He was recently given the honor of being named a 2014 New York-Penn League All-Star as well. Things really couldn't be going any better for Street to this point in his young professional career.
"Really, I think I've just been doing a good job of keeping the ball down this season, and working in and out. That's what you need to do to be successful as a pitcher. I have been enjoying it to say the least. I've been relaxing and having fun. Being selected to the All-Star team was pretty much icing on the cake. It's a great honor for me personally, but I also have to give credit to the coaches and my teammates for pushing me to get better everyday."
Not only is Street having fun this season, but he has been fun to watch as a spectator too. It's great to see a player with such a refreshing, energetic mindset, and attitude. Expect big things from Sam Street in the future.