Victorian James Beresford has become the 33rd Australian to make a MLB roster, after the Minnesota Twins today announced his promotion from the AAA-Rochester Red Wings.
After signing for the Twins as a 16 year old in 2005 and toiling away in the minor league system for 11 years, Beresford will become the fourth Australian to play in the MLB during the 2016 season after Peter Moylan, Warwick Saupold and Liam Hendriks all saw time on the biggest baseball stage in the world this year.
Upon hearing the news of Beresford’s call-up Team Australia Manager Jon Deeble was extremely excited.
“It’s absolutely outstanding news and I can’t think of a more deserving guy to get the call than James,” Deeble said.
“He has performed everywhere he’s gone and to hit over .300 in Triple-A baseball is no mean feat. James never got discouraged throughout his time in the minors, and I couldn’t be prouder.”
Minnesota Twins manager Paul Molitor said he’s “A big Jimmy fan,” to reporters on Monday.
“Once in a while someone needs to be rewarded for everything they’ve done, including playing well."
Beresford played a key role for Australia at the World Baseball Classic Qualifier in Sydney in February and is been a vital member of the national team setup leading into the World Baseball Classic in March next year.