Western Australian native and U23 World Cup silver medallist Josh Hendrickson has today fulfilled a lifelong dream, being drafted by the Kansas City Royals in the 20th round of the MLB Draft.
20-year-old Hendrickson has been plying his trade for NJCAA Division 1 side Barton Community College in the 2017/18 season, anchoring the Cougars to a history making 47-15 record.
The 6’4” leftie posted outstanding numbers in his sophomore campaign, finishing with 125 strikeouts (4th in NJCAA D1) in 96.1 innings of work. Hendrickson finished with an 11-3 record, and an impressive ERA of 2.52.
Hendrickson has the option continuing his college career with the University of San Diego, and believes the competitiveness in the US college system has held him in good stead.
“Every kid dreams of playing professional baseball, and that was something I aspired to do,” Hendrickson said.
“Playing college baseball in the US was a challenge, as everyone plays baseball there. There are so many good college and high school teams which adds to the pressure, as there is always someone ready to take your spot.”
Hendrickson made three appearances at the U23 World Cup in 2016, with the Australian team taking home a silver medal.