Kade McClure and Mitch Longo know where their respective minor-league seasons will begin.
McClure, a Mentor graduate with the White Sox organization, is in the starting rotation for the low Single-A Kannapolis (Md.) Intimidators of the South Atlantic League. The 6-foot-7 right-hander said he will start the team’s regular-season opener April 5 at home against Lakewood. First pitch is 6:35 p.m., and McClure can’t wait.
“I’m pumped,” said McClure. “My first spring (training) was some early mornings and long days.”
Last spring, McClure was selected by the White Sox in the MLB draft in Round 6 with the 177th overall pick. After finishing his college career with the Louisville Cardinals at the College World Series, McClure signed with the White Sox and played at three levels. He made 10 appearances, and had a 0.82 ERA with 19 strikeouts in 11 innings pitched. He allowed just one hit — a home run — and walked three.
Longo, a Mayfield graduate, hopes to keep creating a buzz with his bat in the Indians organization. The Ohio University product will start the season at the high Single-A Lynchburg (Va.) Hillcats and play the outfield. Lynchburg is in the Carolina League.
Last season with the Captains, Longo missed more than half the season with an injury. When he returned, Longo put on a hitting show in 55 games at Lake County. He hit .361 with four home runs, 25 RBI, 18 doubles, and 18 stolen bases.
He was promoted to Lynchburg for the playoffs, and kept it going. Longo played five games, and hit .563 (9 for 16) with eight runs, three RBI and two stolen bases.
Longo was a 16th-round pick of the Indians in 2016.
Lynchburg opens its season April 5, and will host Down East at 6:30 p.m.
Don’t miss
>> Marquee Indians prospect to start season at Lake County