NC State Newsstand: Former Pack9 standout Will Wilson makes MLB debut, logs first-career hit
It seemed like Will Wilson was on the fast-track to Major Leagues once he left NC State as the 15th overall pick by the Los Angeles Angels in the 2019 MLB Draft. Instead, however, the infielder had to grind his way through the minor leagues.
Six minor league clubs in three different systems over the past six years, Wilson finally made his MLB debut with the Cleveland Guardians on Wednesday afternoon.
“Just praise God, man,” Wilson said after a 5-1 loss to the New York Yankees. “It’s been a journey.”
Wilson, who was traded to the San Francisco Giants’ organization just six months after he was drafted, worked his way to as high as Triple-A before the Guardians selected him in the minor league portion of last year’s Rule 5 Draft.
It opened the opportunity for a fresh start in a new system, and Wilson took full advantage. He hit a red-hot .324 with four doubles, six home runs and 18 RBI in just 18 games with Triple-A Columbus to earn a promotion to the Big League roster on Tuesday.
Wilson spent his first day as a Major Leaguer as a reserve in the dugout during the Guardians’ 3-2 win over the Yankees later that night. He then drew into the lineup at third base on Wednesday, where he hit fifth against former Wolfpack ace Carlos Rodon.
Although Wilson began his MLB career 0-for-3 against one of the top arms to ever depart NC State’s program, the infielder posted his first-career hit off Yankees reliever Luke Weaver in the ninth — a single through the left side.
Just like his journey to this moment, Wilson didn’t seem discouraged by a slow start at the plate. Once he finally reached base, a smile beamed from his face. The ball was collected as a souvenir for the baseball lifer to cement the moment in history.
“It’s a humbling experience, but it’s a good one,” his father, Brad, told MLB.com of Wilson’s journey. “This is what he’s worked for. This is what he’s wanted to do. It hasn’t been an easy road, but he’s never quit. He’s never given up.”
Wilson became the 21st Wolfpack player developed by Elliott Avent to reach baseball’s top level. He’s the fourth former NC State standout to appear in an MLB game this season, joining shortstop Trea Turner (Phillies), catcher Patrick Bailey (Giants) and Rodon.
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NC State basketball coach Will Wade is set to throw out the first pitch tonight against Clemson.
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Aziaha James, the 12th overall pick in the WNBA Draft, was officially introduced with the Dallas Wings.
You can catch NC State football on the ACC Network later this afternoon.
Quote of the day
Longtime NC State target Clayton (N.C.) three-star athlete Aiden Smalls is set to make his college commitment on Friday. Here’s what he recently said about the Wolfpack.
“They’ve been with me since eighth grade,” Smalls said. “They’re close to home. That’s been the school I’ve been thinking about going to my whole life. I love [Dave] Doeren, I love Joker [Phillips] — I love everybody there.”
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