Montoursville native Vince Molesky is coming off of a spectacular summer. The former Mount St. Mary’s product continues to amaze me. He was undrafted out of a college, but fortunate enough to sign with Independent. Molesky played with the Wichita Wingnuts of the American Association in 2015. He was then traded to the Gateway Grizzlies of the Frontier League. Vincent led the Frontier League in strikeouts for the next two years.

When Vince “aged out” he made the fortunate transition to the Atlantic. This league is bursting with former and current Major League players looking to get back into the game. The competition is fierce, and he is definitely holding his own. Molesky was one of the top dogs for the Somerset Patriots. The 6’4” right-hander finished the year at 7-2 with 88 strikeouts. He had a team-best 2.65 ERA and started 11 games. My man was money on the mound. Not too shabby for a kid who went undrafted.

“I have worked extremely hard on my command,” my young friend explained. “In professional baseball, you have to eliminate those mistakes. In college, you could get away with them. But not here.

“The hardest thing for me was going undrafted out of college,” Molesky continued. “I didn’t get invited to spring training, and did not know if I’d ever get a shot. The Frontier League was a grind, but I was grateful for the opportunity. I knew I had what it takes to get to play affiliated baseball. I stayed hungry and wanted to prove people wrong.

“My successes are simply stemming off of location, command, and change of speeds. I need to do all three of those things well. Now, I don’t believe I throw slowly at 88-91, it isn’t fast, but changing speeds can keep hitters off balance. Having good command and the ability to locate at different velocities has rejuvenated my career.”

Vince and I go way back, as I’ve known this young man for a very long time. He played four years of varsity basketball for me at Montoursville High. Vince was a stud on the court, and made me look like a decent coach. He scored over 1,000 points in his scholastic career. But baseball was his number one sport, and he continues to live his dream. Molesky has been invited to play in Mexico this winter. It’s another great opportunity to showcase his talents. Why Mexico?

“My season led to many international offers,” Molesky replied. “I had some on the table from all over. In Mexico, I will be playing against a lot of double and triple-A guys, so it’s a major step forward. I also have the chance to make more money in one month than I did all of last season. Ultimately, if I can turn a few heads, then I know I could do so in affiliate ball without any doubts.

“My parents (Mark and Therese) and my fiancé (Nicole) are my biggest supporters,” Molesky concluded. “Literally, without them, this wouldn’t be possible. The great thing about getting the opportunity to play in the Atlantic League this summer was being able to play close to home. I had plenty of college teammates and family friends from home who were able to come and see play. Nicole has been great. It’s truly a blessing to have met someone who is so supportive and is willing to live this crazy lifestyle. We view everything as just another great experience and chapter. And if and when more opportunity comes knocking, we’ll be ready.”