This is why we do this, right? To see the development of baseball players, and celebrate when a few make the ultimate level (and eventually cash the ultimate paycheck).

Let’s take a quick look at the former Valley Leaguers who make their major league debut in 2015, and a look at who might reach the “Show” in the season that’s just about to start!

2015 Debuts

  1. Adam Liberatore (Waynesboro 2007-08), April 17
  2. Jack Leathersich (Haymarket 2009), April 29
  3. Scott Copeland (Staunton 2007), May 2
  4. Guido Knudson (Woodstock 2009), August 22
  5. Rico Noel (Covington 2008), September 2
  6. Mac Williamson (Harrisonburg 2011), September 23

Possible 2016 Debuts (a list of ten+one)

  1. Tyler White (Haymarket 2010) (This is a gimmee- Tyler has already made Houston’s opening day roster, so he’ll make his debut, possibly, on opening day!)
  2. Jacob Wilson (Luray 2009): My guess is that as soon as the Cardinals need a backup infielder, Jacob will get a shot.
  3. Chris Devenski (Woodstock 2011): Chris threw amazingly well in Spring Training. I see him helping the Astros’ bullpen in 2016.
  4. Chad Kuhl (New Market 2012): Chad threw tremendously well in Double-A in 2015- he’s on the cusp!
  5. Brian Holmes (Harrisonburg 2010): 70 strikeouts in 71 Double-A innings in ’15, plus being a 6-foot-4 lefty….
  6. Ryan Yarbrough (Luray 2012): Another big lefty (he’s 6-5); I’ve read that he has a chance to help the Mariners later in 2016
  7. Greg Nappo (Haymarket 2010): Greg has done nothing but dominate the minors. Come on, Miami, it’s time!
  8. Kaleb Fleck (Waynesboro 2008, 2010): 66 K’s in 52 Triple-A innings, plus Kaleb has advanced one level every year since signing in 2012… so, it’s time!
  9. Stephen Kohlscheen (Harrisonburg 2010): Another big reliever who strikes batters out!
  10. Ryan Schimpf (Luray 2008): New organization (Padres), lots of power from a second baseman…

and one extra:

11. Sherman Johnson (Covington 2009-10): The OBP will be too much for the Angels to resist!