Pitcher Adrian Sampson, whose stock rose while pitching two years at Bellevue College, leading them to an NWAC title in 2011, made his major league debut for the Seattle Mariners at historic Fenway Park against the Boston Red Sox yesterday. Sampson, who did not pitch his senior year in high school due to an injury, opted to pitch at Bellevue for two years to get back on track physically. The move ended up being beneficial for both Sampson and the team as Sampson’s stock rose dramatically in two years.
He was first drafted by the Miami Marlins after his freshman campaign after leading BC to the NWAC title over Lower Columbia. His improvement was even greater by returning for a sophomore season, leading the NWAC in strikeouts and getting drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the fifth round. He was the highest drafted right-handed junior college pitcher selected overall. Here is a link to the MLB story following his memorable game. Sampson is one of six Bellevue pitchers currently pitching professionally. The total is more than any other NWAC school.
Last Updated June 22, 2016
