Betts: Terriers' Kwinter, Mota-Dias soaking up Canada Futures Showcase experience
Terriers outfielder Ethan Mota-Dias (Halton Hills, Ont.) takes some cuts on Tuesday at the Canadian Futures Showcase at Rogers Centre. Photo: Toronto Blue Jays Academy
September 21, 2023
By Matt Betts
Canadian Baseball Network
Stepping on the field at Rogers Centre during the Canadian Futures Showcase brought a rush of emotion for Terriers outfielder Ethan Mota-Dias and left-handed pitcher Russell Kwinter.
It began with nerves, transitioned to excitement and probably ended with some relief after seeing and throwing their first pitches.
"It's been great getting to play at a field I've dreamed of playing at my whole life," Mota-Dias said.
"It's a crazy experience to play here and meet a bunch of new people."
Admittedly a little nervous before play began, those feelings subsided after he stroked a double with professional scouts and college recruiters watching on. It was quite the moment for the 2026 graduate.
Playing against the top players from across the country has helped him understand where he currently stands and motivates him to get to where he wants to go.
"I hope I walk away with some exposure," he said.
"From a learning standpoint, you have to hustle everywhere. You never know who's watching. It's just the little things that will get you noticed by hustling and showing a good attitude."
Not to be outdone, Kwinter took the mound for Team Red and threw two scoreless innings in a 6-5 victory. He allowed a hit and struck out one.
"I really took it in when I stepped on that field but as soon as I threw my first pitch it was just like any other field to me," Kwinter said.
"It was great. It was one of the best feelings I've ever had."
Kwinter believes getting the chance to face this type of competition will serve him well in his development as he attempts to make the jump to the next level.
"I'm not sure what's going to come out of it, that's for the scouts to decide," he said.
"It was good to get this first experience. I think I did well and held my own. I'm one of the smaller pitchers here so it was nice to prove myself. I was pretty happy with everything."