Armorer shines at bat and in field to help Team Maroon to tie
Ontario Blue Jays OF Darius Armorer (Whitby, Ont.) prepares to swing in his final at-bat of Thursday's 4-4 tie against Team Orange on Day 3 of Tournament 12 at the Rogers Centre. Credit: Joshua Howe
September 19, 2019
By Jonathan Chan
Canadian Baseball Network
Darius Armorer is doing everything he can to make up for lost time at his first Tournament 12.
The 18-year old Whitby, Ont., native suffered a broken hand during the 2018 season that caused him to miss his opportunity to play at T12 last year.
Armorer is looking to put the worst year of his baseball career behind him and showcase why he is one of the most highly regarded players in the tournament.
“Last year really sucked. Having to miss a tournament like this and having to recover so quickly, because baseball is always going on in my life,” said Armorer beside the visitor’s dugout at Rogers Centre. “Now I get my chance, I'm trying to make the best of it.”
The right-fielder has jumped out of the gates with his opportunity, providing the offensive and defensive spark for Team Maroon in their 4-4 tie with Team Red on Thursday. He was awarded Player of the Game for his efforts.
Armorer flashed five-tool potential in the game, most impressively ripping a ground rule double into left field as part of a four-run first inning.
He also stole a base and showed off his strong arm, nearly gunning down a runner at the plate with a strong, accurate throw in the seventh inning.
“One of the biggest strengths is obviously my arm. That's what I'm known for,” said the Ontario Blue Jays outfielder. “Making sure my speed is always a part of my game.”
Team Orange coach Andy Stewart worked with Armorer while he was with the Toronto Mets and noted his great potential.
"When he was with our program you can see there was ability, talent, and tools. He's got a long body, strong long arms, long legs, the perfect body build,” said Stewart.
“He’s a good athlete and he's worked hard, and he's just developed getting stronger with time. You can see that it's all coming together at the right time.”
Having lost time to his injury, Armorer knows he needs to take his next steps quickly and prepare for what comes after he graduates this spring.
“I want to try to find a school. Making sure that I do what I need to do to be prepared for the next level,” said Armorer. “Going to a great school would be a good option for me.”
Like most ball players, Armorer dreams of playing in the Major Leagues, and will take every step of his journey there in stride.
“Everyone's dream is to get drafted and eventually play in the big leagues, everyone wants to create the journey of playing at an elite level,” said Armorer. “If things don't work out the way I planned, that's what happens.
“Everything happens for a reason, that's what I believe. If breaking my hand and missing T12 last year was something] that was supposed to happen, I guess now is my time.”